West-Mexican Spurwing
Common NameWest-Mexican Spurwing
Scientific NameSystasea pulverulenta
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, dark brown, purple
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, desert washes, canyons, rocky hillsides, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico
Host Plantsglobemallows (Sphaeralcea spp.), Indian mallows (Abutilon spp.)
Flight PeriodMarch to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae create shelters by folding leaves and pupate within a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey pattern with purplish sheen, distinctly scalloped wing margins, and the small spur on the hindwing. It is often found in arid habitats.
Description
This is a medium-sized skipper with mottled brown and grey wings, featuring darker bands and patches, and often a subtle purplish iridescence. Its wing margins are distinctly scalloped, and the hindwing possesses a small, characteristic spur.
