Northern White Skipper
Often seen fluttering around the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is the Northern White Skipper (Heliopetes ericetorum), a type of butterfly found in eastern Washington, south to western Colorado, southern California, Arizona, Baja California, and northwest Mexico.
Known to be a fast-flying species, the Northern White Skipper’s preferred habitats include open woodlands, chaparral, dry washes, desert mountains, and arid land. They can usually be seen flying low to the ground and through gullies, stopping to feed on sage and buckwheat flower. With a wingspan of approximately 3.2-3.8 cm, male butterflies can be identified by their predominantly white coloring with brown “zig-zag” markings, while females have thicker, darker brown markings with cream-colored wings.
Known to be a fast-flying species, the Northern White Skipper’s preferred habitats include open woodlands, chaparral, dry washes, desert mountains, and arid land. They can usually be seen flying low to the ground and through gullies, stopping to feed on sage and buckwheat flower. With a wingspan of approximately 3.2-3.8 cm, male butterflies can be identified by their predominantly white coloring with brown “zig-zag” markings, while females have thicker, darker brown markings with cream-colored wings.
Most often seen from April to October, the Northern White Skipper can produce multiple broods, so keep an eye out for these fluttering beauties the next time you hit the trails!
For more information about native wildlife on the Landmarks, visit IRConservancy.org or follow the Landmarks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
For more information about native wildlife on the Landmarks, visit IRConservancy.org or follow the Landmarks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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