Pygmy Skipper
Common NamePygmy Skipper
Scientific NameAncyloxypha numitor
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsgolden-brown, orange, dark brown
HabitatWet meadows, marshes, stream banks, ditches, open grassy areas, often near water.
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and Texas.
Host Plantsrice cutgrass, barnyard grass, various wetland grasses
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods), year-round in southern Florida
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae are green with a dark dorsal stripe, feeding on grass blades. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its extremely small size, weak and low fluttering flight, and dull golden-brown to orange-brown wings that lack prominent markings. Often found in damp, grassy environments.
Description
A very small and delicate skipper with dull golden-brown to orange-brown wings, often appearing somewhat translucent or iridescent, and a slender body.
