Veined White-Skipper
Common NameVeined White-Skipper
Scientific NameHeliopetes domicella
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorswhite, black, orange
HabitatOpen fields, disturbed areas, roadsides, desert scrub, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, California), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsSida, Malva, Abutilon, Anoda
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods in warmer regions)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are typically green with a dark head, feeding on mallow leaves before pupating in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the white wings with strong dark venation, which gives it its common name. The underside of the hindwing may have a yellowish wash.
Description
A small to medium-sized skipper with predominantly white wings distinctly marked by prominent dark brown or black veins. Its body is dark, often with some orange-brown scaling near the thorax.
