Two-spotted Grass-skipper
Common NameTwo-spotted Grass-skipper
Scientific NameHesperia metea
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatDry open woodlands, pine barrens, sandy clearings, and grasslands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from New England south to Florida, and west to parts of the Midwest
Host PlantsAndropogon, Schizachyrium
Flight PeriodMarch to June
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host grasses. Larvae feed on grasses, creating shelters from tied leaves, and overwinter as partially grown larvae before pupating in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled dark brown and grey wings with distinct white spots on both surfaces. The antennae are clubbed with a hooked tip, and its flight is typically fast and erratic.
Description
A small, robust skipper with mottled dark brown and grey wings, featuring prominent white or pale spots on both forewings and hindwings.
