Critters of the Week

Where Spotted: Reedy Creek
Common Name: Silver Spotted Skipper
Scientific Name: Pargyreus Clarus
Wingspan: 1.75 to 2.40 inches

Quick Facts Courtesy of the University of Florida

• They frequent edges of forests, swamps, brushy areas, and other open areas where nectar plants are found.
• Adults have the jerky flight typical of many skippers.
• Adult males rest on tree limbs or other tall vegetation and fly out to investigate flying objects — including females.
• Adult females are reported to lay their eggs directly on the host plants or occasionally on nearby non-host plants.
• Like most skippers, silver-spotted skipper larvae live in leaf shelters. First instar larvae make shelters on the apical halves of leaves by cutting a flap on the leaf margin, folding it over and attaching it with silk. Larger larvae often silk several leaves together to form shelters.
• The larvae feed on leaves of herbs, vines, shrubs, and trees in the pea family (Fabaceae) including false indigobush , American hogpeanut, Atlantic pidgeonwings or butterfly pea, groundnut, American wisteria and the introduced Dixie ticktrefoil, kudzu, black locust, Chinese wisteria and a variety of other legumes.

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Dude Perfect at Richmond SPCA

Hey duuude! I think it would be totally rad if we became best buds! I am one cool cat with an awesome personality and I know I’d make a great addition to your family. I love playing with toys but I’m not all fun and games, I’m also a pretty smart guy. If you’re ready for one far out adventure, you’ve gotta come meet me today! (Editors Note: Missed opportunity Dude Purrrrfect for a name.)

Age: 3 years, 2 months
Gender: Neutered Male
Color: White / Black
ID: 50491399

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