Zarucco Duskywing
Common NameZarucco Duskywing
Scientific NameErynnis zarucco
FamilyHesperiidae
SubfamilyPyrginae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsdark brown, tan, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, clearings, fields, roadsides, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Virginia to Florida, west to eastern Texas), Cuba
Host PlantsIndigofera, Galactia, Rhynchosia, Vigna, Desmodium, Trifolium
Flight PeriodFebruary to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae feed within leaf shelters, and pupation occurs in a loose cocoon within a leaf shelter or on the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct white hyaline spots on the forewing, especially the subapical spots, and the generally uniform dark brown hindwings. It can be distinguished from similar duskywings by the specific arrangement of these spots and the overall wing pattern.
Description
A medium-sized skipper with dark brown, mottled wings featuring irregular lighter brown patches and a series of small, distinct white hyaline spots on the forewings.
