Variegated Skipper (Gorgythion begga [Kirby])
Wing span: 15/16 - 1 1/16 inches (2.4 - 2.7 cm).
Identification: Upperside is dark brown with a variegated pattern and a slight iridescent violet sheen; forewing has 2 tiny transparent spots near the apex.
Life history: Not reported.
Flight: March and December in South Texas.
Caterpillar hosts: Not reported.
Adult food: Not reported.
Habitat: Dry creek beds and small clearings in tropical forests.
Range: Argentina north through Central America to Mexico. A very rare stray north into South Texas.
Conservation: Not necessary for a rare stray.
The Nature Conservancy Global Rank: G5 - Demonstrably secure globally, though it may be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.
Management needs: None reported.
References:
Opler, P. A. and V. Malikul. 1992. A field guide to eastern butterflies. Peterson field guide #4. Houghton-Mifflin Co., Boston. 396 pages, 48 color plates. Scott, J. A. 1986. The butterflies of North America. Stanford University Press, Stanford, Calif. 583 pages, 64 color plates.
Author: Jane M. Struttmann