Rocky Mountain Duskywing
Common NameRocky Mountain Duskywing
Scientific NameErynnis telemachus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, black, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, canyons, rocky areas, often associated with oak habitats
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Nevada, California) and northern Mexico
Host PlantsOak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to July, sometimes a second brood in late summer/fall
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on oak leaves. Larvae feed on the leaves, creating shelters, and typically overwinter as larvae or pupae before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall mottled gray-brown 'frosted' appearance on the forewings, robust body, and association with oak woodlands in its range. Specific identification often requires close examination of wing patterns and sometimes genitalia due to similarity with other *Erynnis* species.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with mottled dark brown and gray forewings, often appearing 'frosted' with white scales, and plainer brown hindwings with faint lighter spots along the margin. Its body is robust and hairy.
