Zarucco Duskywing (GTM Research Reserve Butterfly Guide)

Zarucco Duskywing

Erynnis zarucco

Summary ⁶

Zarucco Duskywing (Erynnis zarucco) is a butterfly of the Hesperiidae family, subfamily Pyrginae. Caterpillars feed on leaves and rest in shelters of rolled or tied leaves. Caterpillars from the last brood hibernate.

Description ⁶

Forewing is narrow and pointed; hind wing is somewhat triangular. Upper side is dark brown with a reddish patch at the end of the forewing cell. Hind wing has brown fringe except for some individuals on the Florida Keys that have white fringe. Male has a costal fold containing yellow scent scales; female has a patch of scent scales on the 7th abdominal segment.
Wing Span: 1 5/8 - 1 7/8 inches (4.2 - 4.8 cm).

Larva Description ⁶

Head distinct, black. Body green, covered with small white spots; thin dark dorsal stripe; thin yellow lateral stripes.

Larval Host Plants ⁶

Herbaceous legumes including black locust (Robinia pseudacacia), hairy bush clover (Lespedeza hirta), Colorado River hemp (Sesbania exaltata), and Sesbania longifolia.

GTM Occurrence ⁶

The Zarucco Duskywing is considered a frequent species at the GTM. Most observations were in the forest along the Glasswort Loop (Transect C) and the Marsh Pond Overlook (Transect C). It was also found in the open habitat of Transect A. It flies from April to December with peak abundance in July and September. There have been 55 specimens observed as of December 28, 2015.

Distribution ⁶

Southeastern United States from North Carolina south to the Florida Keys, west to eastern Texas and central Oklahoma. Strays north to eastern Pennsylvania and Connecticut. Occurs also on Cuba and Hispaniola.

Habitat ⁷

Many kinds of open fields, scrub, wood edges, brushy or lightly wooded habitats.

Nature serve conservation status ⁸

Rounded Global Status Rank: G5 - Secure

Sources and Credits

More Info

iNat Map

Category name	frequent

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