Western Arctic Skipper
Common NameWestern Arctic Skipper
Scientific NameHesperia comma
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, yellow, orange
HabitatArctic and subarctic tundra, open grassy areas, rocky slopes, meadows
Geographic RangeArctic regions of North America (Alaska, Yukon, Northwest Territories, northern Canada)
Host Plantsfescues, various grasses
Flight PeriodMid-July to late August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on grasses and overwinter as partially grown caterpillars. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the dark brown wings with numerous distinct yellow-orange spots, especially on the underside of the hindwings (though not visible here). It has a robust, hairy body and characteristic skipper antennae with hooked clubs.
Description
A small, robust skipper with dark brown wings heavily marked with bright yellow to orange spots on both the forewings and hindwings. Its body is hairy and dark brown.
