Polyctor Tufted-Skipper
Common NamePolyctor Tufted-Skipper
Scientific NamePolyctor polyctor
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings, often near streams
Geographic RangeCentral America (Mexico south to Panama), northern South America, rare stray to southern Texas
Host PlantsLonchocarpus species (Fabaceae)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar) feeding on host plants, pupa (chrysalis), and finally the adult butterfly.
Identification TipsKey features include the striking black and white mottled wing pattern, especially the large white patches on the forewings. Like other skippers, it has a robust body and characteristic hooked antennae.
Description
A robust, medium-sized skipper with a hairy body. Its wings are predominantly dark brown to black with prominent, somewhat translucent white patches and spots, creating a distinct mottled pattern.
