spotted sedge-skipper
Common Namespotted sedge-skipper
Scientific NamePyrgus communis
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatOpen, disturbed areas, fields, gardens, roadsides, prairies, vacant lots
Geographic RangeSouthern Canada, throughout the United States, and into Mexico
Host Plantscommon mallow, cheeseweed, globe mallow, false mallow
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay single, pale green eggs on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a dark head, feeding on mallow leaves, often creating leaf shelters. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsEasily recognized by its bold black and white checkered pattern on both upper and undersides of the wings. The forewing has a series of prominent white spots, and the hindwing is also heavily checkered. Antennae are distinctly hooked.
Description
A small, robust skipper with a distinctive black and white checkered pattern on its wings and a hairy, black and white striped body.
