Staphylus hayhurstii
(Edwards, 1870)
Hayhurst's scallopwing
Hayhurst's scallopwing is a small found across the eastern and central United States. have a wingspan of 25–32 mm and are active from spring through late summer, with extended periods in southern regions. The shows variable seasonality, with two in most of its range but year-round activity possible in Florida.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Staphylus hayhurstii: //ˈstæfɪləs heɪˈhɜrsti.aɪ//
These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.
Identification
Distinguished from other scallopwings by its specific wing pattern and geographic range. The scalloped hindwing margin is characteristic of the Staphylus. In the eastern United States, it may be confused with Staphylus ceos (Golden-headed Scallopwing), which has a golden and different distribution centered in the Southwest.
Images
Distribution
United States from eastern Nebraska east across the southern Midwest to southern Pennsylvania, south to Florida, the Gulf states, and central Texas. One record from Colorado (Prowers County, 2007) represents a notable range extension.
Seasonality
Two per year in most of range, with active May to August. Extended season in Mississippi (April to September) and Florida (February to December).
Diet
Larvae feed on Chenopodium and occasionally Alternanthera species. feed on nectar from diverse flowers including marigold, knotweed, spearmint, wild marjoram, cucumber, dogbane, white sweet clover, and white clover.
Host Associations
- Chenopodium - larval food plantprimary
- Alternanthera - larval food plantoccasional
Life Cycle
Two per year in most of range; multi-brooded in southern portions.
Similar Taxa
- Staphylus ceosBoth have scalloped wings, but S. ceos has golden and southwestern distribution
- Staphylus mazansSynonymized with S. hayhurstii per some sources; taxonomic relationship requires verification