Sachem Skipper
Common NameSachem Skipper
Scientific NameAtalopedes campestris
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown, black
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, lawns, roadsides, open fields
Geographic RangeEastern and Central United States, south into Mexico and Central America
Host PlantsBermuda grass, St. Augustine grass, various other lawn and pasture grasses
Flight PeriodApril to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grass blades, constructing shelters by tying leaves together. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their bright orange coloration and the prominent black stigma on the forewing. Females are darker but have distinct orange spots. Their rapid, darting flight is characteristic of grass skippers.
Description
A small, robust grass skipper. Males are bright orange-brown with a prominent black stigma on the forewing, while females are darker brown with distinct orange spots.
