Silver-Spotted Skipper

Media
Image of a silver-spotted skipper
Scientific Name
Epargyreus clarus
Family
Hesperiidae (skippers)
Description

The silver-spotted skipper is the largest skipper in Missouri, easily recognized by the dark color, gold spots on the forewings, and the distinctive silvery white patch beneath the hindwing. Like other skippers, this species has a stout body and relatively small wings. The club of the antenna has a slender tip that curves backward.

Larvae are rather plain, bright yellowish green, but with a large, reddish-brown head with two orange eyespots.

Size

Wingspan: 1½–2½ inches.

Where To Find
image of Silver-Spotted Skipper Distribution Map

Statewide.

A common species of brushy fields, roadsides, and city yards. Males frequently perch on plants and shrubs, darting out at any passing butterfly. Skippers are named for skipping pattern of their swift, bouncing, erratic flight.

Larvae feed on members of the bean or pea family. In our state, they have been found on false indigo, wisteria, honey locust, black locust, rose acacia, and wild senna. Adults visit flowers and mud puddles.

Common breeding resident.

Life Cycle

There are 3 broods a year, with adults flying from early April to mid-October.

In addition to their considerable aesthetic value, butterflies and skippers pollinate plants, many of which have commercial importance. Additionally, because they are sensitive to toxins and disturbance, they are good indicators of the overall status of ecosystems.

The caterpillars are herbivores that graze on vegetation. The adults serve a role in pollination. All stages provide food for predators.

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About Butterflies and Moths in Missouri
Butterflies, skippers, and moths belong to an insect order called the Lepidoptera — the "scale-winged" insects. These living jewels have tiny, overlapping scales that cover their wings like shingles. The scales, whether muted or colorful, seem dusty if they rub off on your fingers. Many butterflies and moths are associated with particular types of food plants, which their caterpillars must eat in order to survive.