Least SkipperEnlarge

Closed wingEnlarge

 

Least Skipper (Ancyloxypha numitor)

Certainly not last among the butterflies in your garden, the Least Skipper brings color and life on the wing. The brown headed green caterpillar turns into a brown and white chrysalis and eventually into a strong adult butterfly. The small rounded wings have rich colored golden centers outlined with bold strokes of black. The confident orange color of these wings threaded with light black lines like ribs show their fantastic shape as they fan out to take flight. The short attentive antennae give this butterfly an inquisitive look. Unique and colorful, the Least Skipper butterfly brings enjoyment and a sense of humor to your garden.

Family: Skipper (Hesperiidae)

Subfamily: Grass Skipper (Hesperiinae)

Average Wingspan: 3/4" - 1"

Habitat: Wet grass area

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  White Clover*, Swamp Verbena*
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Switchgrass, Panic Grass

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Open wing - Fred Miller
Closed wing - Fred Miller