Woodland Skipper
Common NameWoodland Skipper
Scientific NameOchlodes sylvanoides
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, clearings, meadows, grasslands, chaparral
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host Plantsbrome, fescue, bluegrass
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on various host grasses. Larvae feed on these grasses, creating shelters from tied leaves, and overwinter as partially grown caterpillars before pupating in a loose cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the bright orange and dark brown patterned forewings, and the generally plain orange-brown underside of the hindwings. Males possess a distinct black stigma on the forewing. Its flight is typically fast and erratic, low to the ground.
Description
This skipper has an orange body and wings, with the forewings displaying bright orange coloration marked by irregular dark brown patches. The hindwings are a duller orange-brown, often appearing plainer on the underside.
