White-veined Skipper
Common NameWhite-veined Skipper
Scientific NameHeliopetes arsalte
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorswhite, brown, grey
HabitatOpen fields, disturbed areas, gardens, forest edges, tropical lowlands
Geographic RangeSouthern United States (stray), Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsSida spp., Malvastrum spp., Abutilon spp.
Flight PeriodMultiple broods year-round in tropical regions; strays seen in warmer months in northern parts of range
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae are typically green with a dark head, feeding on mallow family plants. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon among leaves.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the bright white body and the distinctive white veins on the underside of the hindwings, which contrast sharply with the darker ground color.
Description
This skipper has a white body and prominent white veins on the underside of its dark brown to grey wings. The forewings often feature several white spots.
