Wild Indigo Duskywing
Common NameWild Indigo Duskywing
Scientific NameErynnis baptisiae
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, gray
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, roadsides, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America
Host Plantswild indigo (Baptisia spp.), false indigo (Amorpha fruticosa)
Flight PeriodApril to September (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on leaves, creating shelters by folding or tying leaves together. Overwinters as a mature larva or pupa.
Identification TipsDistinguished from other duskywings by its generally darker, plainer appearance with fewer distinct spots, and its association with wild indigo host plants. Definitive identification often requires examination of genitalia due to similarity with other *Erynnis* species.
Description
A small, dark, mottled skipper with a cryptic appearance, typically dark brown to blackish with faint lighter spots on the forewings, blending well with its surroundings.
