This plain, brown skipper has a wingspan of 1 – 1 1/2 inches. Dorsally, it is plain brown except for the darker forewing stigma and border on the male, and small translucent spots on the female’s forewing. Ventrally, it is a dull tan with black at the base. The female may have a faint yellow hindwing patch. The mature caterpillar is approximately 1 inch in length and elongate in shape. It is pale green with a silvery sheen and pale streaking over the sides and back. The head is brown with a black spot on top surrounded by a white horseshoe-shaped mark. Two other white lines encircle the face.
This is a common butterfly in late summer and fall. Favored nectar flowers are mints, dogbane and lotus flowers. It can also be seen visiting mud puddles and dung.
Look for the caterpillars in wetlands or along watercourses. The larvae construct an elongate shelter by binding several leaves together. The inside is lined with silk. Host plants are sedges.
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