Zarucco Duskywing
Erynnis zarucco
Description 1 1/8-1 3/4" (28-44 mm). Basically brown above and below with glassy dots on long, pointed FW; usually has conspicuous light brown patch (sometimes quite russet especially on female) near base and pale patch on outer costal edge. Male has costal fold on FW. HW large and squarish with brown fringes.
Similar Species Wild Indigo Duskywing has pale patch on FW but much stubbier wings.
Life Cycle Egg changes from green to pinkish before hatching. Mature caterpillar light green with white specks, hairy; head has red, yellow, or orange pattern. Chrysalis dark green or brownish.
Host plants are legumes such as locusts (Robinia).
Flight Several broods; all year in Florida.
Habitat Open areas, roadsides, fields, and hills.
Range Connecticut south to Florida, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Discussion Largely a coastal butterfly, the Zarucco Duskywing is common along Florida roadsides, and a predictable visitor of flowers, especially Spanish needles.
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