Silver-spotted Skipper
Common NameSilver-spotted Skipper
Scientific NameEpargyreus clarus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, gold, silver
HabitatGardens, fields, open woodlands, forest edges, roadsides, meadows
Geographic RangeSouthern Canada, throughout the United States, and into Mexico
Host Plantsblack locust, honey locust, wisteria, clover, alfalfa, soybean
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods depending on region)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a large, dark head, and construct leaf shelters. Pupation occurs in leaf litter or within a folded leaf.
Identification TipsThe most definitive identification feature is the large, iridescent silver-white patch on the underside of the hindwing. The forewing's diagonal band of gold-orange spots is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings, a prominent band of gold-orange spots on the forewing, and a distinctive large silver-white patch on the underside of the hindwing.
