Peck’s Skipper
Polites peckius
Summary
Peck’s skipper can be found in fields, lawns and other open areas from spring through autumn. Like other members of its family, this little butterfly rests in the classic V or ‘jet fighter’ position. Many species have a similar appearance, but to identify a Peck’s skipper, look for an elongated orangey rectangle on the hindwing.
The larvae feed on a variety of grasses, forming leaf shelters very close to the ground, where they are fortuitously mostly sheltered from lawnmowers. Overwintering either as a caterpillar or chrysalis, adults emerge in spring to nectar on many plants such as clover, milkweeds, and members of the sunflower family.
More Details
FAMILY
Hesperiidae (Skippers)
IDENTIFICATION
Average Wingspan 1-1.25 inches. Ventral hindwing with two rows of rectangular yellow spots.
HABITAT
Woodland edges, old fields, roadsides, parks, gardens.
LIFE CYCLE
Two to three broods. The female lays one egg at a time on the leaves of a host plant. Overwinters as fully grown larva or pupa.
HOST PLANTS
Feeds on several species of grasses.
Ecosystem Connections
The caterpillars of Peck’s skipper are herbivores that need grasses to survive. The adults serve a role in pollination, and all stages of the life cycle provide food for predators.