Family: Skippers (Hesperiidae)

Subfamily: Spread-wing Skippers (Pyrginae)

Identification: Forewing is pointed; lower half of hindwing has white fringe. Upperside is black-brown with very small, clear spots on the forewing. Male has a costal fold containing scent scales on the forewing. Underside is dark brown; hindwing with dark outlines instead of solid bands.

Life history: Not reported.

Flight: Several broods from April-August.

Wing span: 1 1/2 - 1 3/4 inches (3.8 - 4.5 cm).

Caterpillar hosts: Cologania angustifolia and other Fabaceae.

Adult food: Flower nectar including that from Aloysia and Guardiola.

Habitat: Oak woodland, desert grassland, canyons, streamsides.

Range: Local and uncommon. Arizona to west Texas; south into Mexico.

Conservation: Not usually required.

NatureServe Global Status: G4 - Apparently secure globally, though it might be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.

Management needs: None reported.