Species Detail

Monk

Asbolis capucinus (Lucas, 1857)

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Attributes of Asbolis capucinus

Family: Skippers (Hesperiidae)

Subfamily: Grass Skippers (Hesperiinae)

Identification: Upperside of male is black; forewing with a gray stigma. Upperside of female is a paler brownish black with a pale diffuse patch on the forewing. Underside of both sexes is mahogany red and black.

Life history: Not reported.

Flight: Three to four broods throughout the year in Florida.

Wing span: 1 7/8 - 2 3/8 inches (4.8 - 6 cm).

Caterpillar hosts: Various palms including palmetto (Sabal), date palm (Phoenix dactylifera), and coconut (Cocos nucifera).

Adult food: Nectar from hibiscus and other large flowers.

Habitat: Subtropical disturbed or natural areas near palms.

Range: Peninsular Florida, the Keys, and the West Indies.

Conservation: Not usually required.

NatureServe Global Status: G4 - Apparently secure globally, though it might be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.

Management needs: None reported.