White-striped Longtail
Common NameWhite-striped Longtail
Scientific NameChioides catillus
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyEudaminae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern United States, Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsPhaseolus, Desmodium, Lonchocarpus
Flight PeriodMarch to November (in northern range), year-round (in tropical areas)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Caterpillars are green with a dark head, feeding on leaves and constructing shelters from silk-tied leaves. Pupation occurs within a leaf shelter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad white diagonal band on the forewing and the long, pointed tails on the hindwings. The overall dark brown coloration and typical skipper body shape are also key.
Description
This is a medium-sized skipper with dark brown wings, featuring a prominent, broad white diagonal band across the forewing and long, slender tails on the hindwings. The underside of the hindwing often has a reddish-brown wash.
