The Common Roadside-Skipper butterfly can be found across most of the United States and Southern Canada with scattered populations west of the Rockies. The underside of the wings is dark brownish-black with numerous tiny whitish flecks. The forewing apex and the outer one-half of the hindwing are violet-gray. The upperside of the wings are black with a cluster of small white spots at the apex of the forewing. Both sexes have a checkered wing fringe.

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Common Roadside-Skipper Facts

Butterfly Family: Skipper (Hesperiidae)

Butterfly Subfamily: Hesperiinae

Butterfly Wingspan: 7/8 – 1 1/4 inches

Butterfly Habitat: Open areas in or near woodland, often close to streams

 

Common Roadside- Skipper Host and Nectar Plants

Host Plants:

• Kentucky Blue Grass
• Bent Grass
• Bermuda Grass
• Indian Wood Oats Grass
• River Oat Grass
• Common Oat Grass

Nectar Plants:

• Nectar from various flowers
  • Verbena
  • Selfheal
  • White Clover
  • Primrose-leaved Violet