ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - Butterflies and Skippers - Silver-spotted Skipper

 Silver-spotted Skipper


Photo by Richard Day/Daybreak Imagery
The silver-spotted skipper is so common and widespread in Ohio, that if you don't see it, you are likely to have a bad day looking for any other butterfly as well.
 

Silver-spotted Skipper
Epargyreus clarus

At-a-Glance

• Flight Period: May to September

• Wings: 2.0 - 2.6 inches

Description
The silver-spotted skipper, like almost all of Ohio's skippers, has a curved end to its antennae called an apiculus. The large silver patch on the ventral hindwing, shaped much like the state of Texas, gives this skipper its name and its most identifying mark.

Habitat and Habits
The silver-spotted skipper inhabits all types of habitat except deep woods. Like most skippers, it has a strong and fast flight pattern. It can be hard to follow, but it often stops to take nectar at milkweed flowers and thistles.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The larvae are green and robust with large black heads and feed on black locust and wisteria.