Tawny-edged Skipper
Common NameTawny-edged Skipper
Scientific NamePolites premnas
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open fields, forest edges, roadsides
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico
Host Plantsgrasses
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses, and the larvae feed on these grasses before pupating in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the small size, robust body, and tawny-orange coloration. The presence of a darker 'tawny edge' on the forewing and the hooked antennae are key features for skippers, and specifically for this species within its genus.
Description
A small, robust skipper with tawny-orange to reddish-brown wings, often exhibiting a darker 'tawny edge' on the forewing. Its body is hairy and stout.
