Archilestes californicus
McLachlan, 1895
California Spreadwing
Archilestes californicus, commonly known as the California Spreadwing, is a of in the Lestidae. Like other members of its family, it rests with its wings spread horizontally rather than folded together above the body. The species is found in Central America and North America, with observations documented across a broad geographic range.



Pronunciation
How to pronounce Archilestes californicus: /ˈɑrkɪˌlɛstiz ˌkælɪˈfɔrnɪkəs/
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Identification
Members of the Archilestes, including A. californicus, can be distinguished from other by their characteristic spreadwing posture at rest, with wings held horizontally away from the body rather than folded vertically above the . Specific identification features for A. californicus relative to such as A. grandis (Great Spreadwing) are not documented in available sources.
Images
Distribution
Central America and North America. GBIF distribution records confirm presence in Middle America and North America.
Behavior
Rests with wings spread horizontally, a characteristic of the Lestidae and the Archilestes.
Similar Taxa
- Archilestes grandisAlso a common and widespread member of the same ; both are noted as the most frequently encountered Archilestes species
More Details
Conservation Status
The IUCN conservation status of Archilestes californicus is '' (Least Concern), with no immediate threat to the ' survival. The is increasing. The IUCN status was reviewed in 2017.
Sources and further reading
- BugGuide
- Wikipedia
- GBIF taxonomy match
- iNaturalist taxon
- Catalogue of Life
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