Swamp Darter
Common NameSwamp Darter
Scientific NameEuphyes dion
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, dark brown
HabitatMarshes, fens, wet meadows, swamps
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America
Host PlantsCarex hyalinolepis, Carex lacustris
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on sedges, where larvae feed and construct leaf shelters. They overwinter as partially grown larvae.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark brown wings with extensive orange-yellow markings, especially the large hindwing patch, and its preference for sedge-rich wetlands. Males have a prominent stigma on the forewing.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with a robust, orange-brown body and dark brown wings marked with prominent orange-yellow patches, particularly a large patch on the hindwing.
