Hodges#3991

Vidius perigenes

Classification

Phylum: Arthropoda
Subphylum: Hexapoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Superfamily: Papilionoidea
Family: Hesperiidae
Subfamily: Hesperiinae
Tribe: Moncini
Genus: Vidius
Species: perigenes

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Vidius perigenes: //ˈviː.di.ʊs pɛˈrɪ.d͡ʒiːˌniːz//

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Summary

Vidius perigenes, commonly known as the pale-rayed skipper or perigenes skipper, is a species of grass skipper belonging to the butterfly family Hesperiidae. It inhabits regions across North America, Central America, and South America.

Physical Characteristics

Males have a forewing length of 12-13 mm, while females range from 14-16 mm. Identified by longitudinal whitish streaks on the secondaries beneath.

Identification Tips

Easily identified from its allies by the longitudinal whitish streaks on the secondaries beneath.

Habitat

Typically found in areas where host grasses and flowering plants are present.

Distribution

Periodic strays to southern Texas; also found in Mexico to Columbia.

Diet

Caterpillars feed on grass species such as Setaria spp. (bristle grass) and Stenotaphrum secundatum (St. Augustine grass). Adults feed on flower nectar.

Life Cycle

The main flight period in Texas is from March to December, suggesting multiple generations may occur within a year.