Least Skipper

Media
Photo of a Least Skipper
Scientific Name
Ancyloxypha numitor
Family
Hesperiidae (skippers)
Description

In adult least skippers, the dorsal (top) side of the forewing is dark, but males have some dark orange. The dorsal hindwing has an orange center surrounded by a dark border. With the wings folded together, the underside typically appears all orange, although the ventral (lower) side of the forewing is mostly dark with orange borders.

As a grass skipper, this species commonly rests with the forewings held open in a V shape, while the hindwings are held out horizontally to the side. They may also have all four folded together so that only the bottom surfaces are visible.

Larvae are green, covered with short, pale hairs; the head is dark brown with pale markings.

Similar species: There are about 130–140 species of grass skippers in North America north of Mexico.

Size

Wingspan: ¾–1 inch.

Where To Find
image of Least Skipper Distribution Map

Statewide in moist localities.

Usually found in tall grass next to water and in other moist places, although it is sometimes found in damp meadows or even dry habitats with tall grass. Its flight is weak and near the ground.

Larvae feed on grasses. The adults visit flowers, especially small, low-growing species. Being a rather small skipper, this species can glean nectar from plants with rather small, dainty flowers.

Resident species.

Life Cycle

Adults fly from mid-May into October. Although most grass skippers perch on plants to await potential mates as they happen by, male least skippers fly low through tall grass in search of females. A female rejects a male by dropping her wings to a position below her body. After mating, females lay eggs singly on grasses. The larvae make shelters by curling up leaves of grass. This species overwinters as a nearly full-grown larva.

For many authors, butterflies and their kin are a source of inspiration and symbols. Astrophysicist Carl Sagan described our human perspective amid the vast dimensions of universal time: “We are like butterflies who flutter for a day and think it is forever.”

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.