General: Mojave Sootywing Skippers (Hesperopsis libya) have dark
fore- and hindwings with a wingspan of about 1 inch. The forewing has scattered white spots and two rows of spots (note the white arch on the leading edge of the forewing). Wing edge is white and not checkered. The hindwing may not have white spots.
Taxonomy: Family: Skippers (Hesperiidae); Subfamily: Spread-wing Skippers (Pyrginae)
Where to Find: Mojave Sootywings occur throughout the western US and northwestern Mexico. Look for larvae in desert areas and alkali flats with saltbush, and look for adults on blooming plants, such as rabbitbrush in the fall. Around Las Vegas, look for this species along the Las Vegas Wash in the Clark County Wetlands Park. |