Yuma Skipper
Common NameYuma Skipper
Scientific NameOchlodes yuma
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyHesperiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsorange, tawny, brown
HabitatWet meadows, marshes, riparian areas, and sedge-dominated wetlands
Geographic RangeWestern North America, including California, Oregon, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and parts of the Great Basin.
Host PlantsScirpus americanus, Scirpus maritimus, Schoenoplectus americanus
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed on sedges, creating shelters by tying leaves together, and overwinter as partially grown larvae. Pupation occurs in a loose cocoon near the ground.
Identification TipsLook for the bright orange-tawny upperside, the distinct dark stigma on the forewing of males, and its characteristic association with sedge-dominated wet habitats. Like other skippers, it has hooked antennae.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with bright orange-tawny wings, a prominent dark stigma on the forewing of males, and dark brown margins. The underside is typically a duller orange or yellowish-brown.
