Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 938747

California Giant-Skipper
Agathymus stephensi

Observation date: September 29, 2013
Submitted by: Robert Gorman
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: The calif. giant skipper, looks a lot like a fat moth. because of coloring. very fast flier on hot days. this day was very hot sunny, mid to upper nineties. Does not go to nectar, males sip moisture. very short flight sep-oct. roosts on on rocks or head up on host agave plant. larva was used as worm in mescal. A hard liquor made in Mexico. fermented Agave plant. Also host plant of calif. giant skipper.
Status: Resident
Verified by: Ken Davenport
Verified date: October 30, 2013
Coordinator notes: You may want to contact Kelly Lotts, the Director regarding use of your photos. That is beyond my authority.
Checklist region(s): United States, California, San Diego County