Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

Monk
Asbolis capucinus (Lucas, 1857)


Family: Hesperiidae
Subfamily: 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.
Wing Span: 1 7/8 - 2 3/8 inches (4.8 - 6 cm).
Life History: Not reported.
Flight: Three to four broods throughout the year in Florida.
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.
NCGR: G4 - Apparently secure globally, though it might be quite rare in parts of its range, especially at the periphery.
Management Needs: None reported.
Comments: NULL