Rural Skipper
Common NameRural Skipper
Scientific NameOchlodes sylvanoides
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatMeadows, open woodlands, forest edges, clearings, roadsides
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host Plantsbrome, fescue, bluegrass
Flight PeriodLate June to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grass blades, often constructing shelters, and overwinter as partially grown larvae before pupating in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the bright orange upperwings, the relatively plain orange-brown underside of the hindwing, and the prominent dark stigma on the forewing of males. Distinguish from similar *Ochlodes* species by subtle differences in wing shape and markings.
Description
A small, robust skipper with bright orange-brown wings, a stout, hairy body, and characteristic hooked antennae. The underside of the hindwing is typically plain orange-brown.
