Apyrrothrix araxes
(Hewitson, 1867)
dull firetip, golf-club skipper
A large North American in the Hesperiidae, notable as the only member of the Pyrrhopyginae occurring in the United States. are characterized by their robust body, rapid direct , and strong attraction to flowers. The exhibits distinctive perching with wings held fully or partly open.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Apyrrothrix araxes: /əˌpɪroʊˈθrɪks æˈræk.siːz/
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Identification
The only Pyrrhopyginae skipper in the United States; recognized by its large size relative to other North American skippers, robust body, and characteristic perching posture with wings open or partially open. The "golf-club skipper" refers to a distinctive wing pattern or body shape. is direct and notably fast, typically occurring high above tree .
Images
Habitat
Associated with oak woodlands and adjacent areas; larvae feed on oaks. frequently found in areas with abundant flowering plants.
Distribution
North America, primarily in the southwestern United States and adjacent Mexico. Documented from Arizona (Santa Rita Mountains, Montosa Canyon) and presumably ranges through suitable oak in the region.
Diet
feed on nectar from flowers; larvae feed on oak (Quercus).
Host Associations
- Quercus - larval plantLarvae feed on oaks
Behavior
perch with wings fully or partly open, unlike many skippers that hold wings closed. is direct, fast, and typically high above trees. Adults are strongly attracted to flowers for nectar.
Similar Taxa
- Other Hesperiidae skippersA. araxes is distinguished by its larger size, open-wing perching posture, and membership in Pyrrhopyginae (all other US skippers are in different ).
- Pyrrhopyge speciesFormerly classified in this ; A. araxes is the only North American representative of this group, with other Pyrrhopyginae restricted to the Neotropics.