Territorial-perching
Guides
Amblyscirtes nysa
Nysa Roadside-Skipper, nysa roadside skipper
Amblyscirtes nysa, commonly known as the Nysa Roadside-Skipper, is a grass skipper butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. The species exhibits a disjunct distribution spanning from Mexico through the southwestern United States into the southern Great Plains, with occasional vagrant records extending beyond its core range. Males establish perching territories in specific microhabitats during early morning hours. The species produces one to three generations annually depending on latitude, with caterpillars feeding on grasses.
Epargyreus clarus
Silver-spotted Skipper
Epargyreus clarus, commonly known as the silver-spotted skipper, is one of the largest and most widespread skippers in North America. Adults are readily identified by a prominent silver-white patch on the ventral surface of each hindwing. The species is multivoltine, with one to four generations per year depending on latitude, and exhibits strikingly higher pupal mortality during summer generations compared to overwintering generations. Larvae construct elaborate silk-lashed leaf shelters that provide limited protection from predators.