Orcynoides Skipper
Common NameOrcynoides Skipper
Scientific NameBurnsius orcynoides
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatOpen fields, disturbed areas, roadsides, forest edges, and areas with host plants.
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (e.g., Texas, Arizona), Mexico, Central America, and parts of South America.
Host PlantsSida spp., Malvaceae (mallow family) species
Flight PeriodMultiple broods from spring to fall in temperate regions; year-round in tropical areas.
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the leaves of host plants. Larvae feed on mallows, and pupation occurs in a loose cocoon. Multiple generations emerge throughout the year in warmer climates.
Identification TipsLook for the overall dark brown coloration with a distinctive pattern of bright white spots on both wings. The prominent white fringe on the hindwing is a key identifying feature, distinguishing it from other similar *Burnsius* skippers.
Description
A small, dark brown skipper with numerous distinct white spots scattered across both forewings and hindwings. The hindwings feature a prominent white fringe along the margin.
