Orius Skipper
Common NameOrius Skipper
Scientific NameStaphylus orius
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas), Mexico, Central America, and South America
Host PlantsSida spp., various grasses
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, pupate, and emerge as adults, typically with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall dark, mottled brown and grey appearance, often appearing 'dusty'. Like other skippers, it has a robust body and hooked antennae, and typically rests with its wings partially spread.
Description
A small, dark brown skipper with mottled wings, featuring lighter, almost greyish speckles that give it a somewhat frosted appearance. Its body is robust and hairy.
