Arizona Skipper (Codatractus arizonensis [Skinner])
Wing span: 1 3/4 - 2 inches (4.5 - 5.1 cm).
Identification: Fringes are checkered. Upperside is dark brown; hindwing has an olive-brown overlay. Forewing median band consists of 4 large shiny white spots both above and below. Underside of hindwing has gray overscales on the outer third and 2 irregular dark bands.
Life history: Males are highly territorial and perch on shrub branches.
Flight: Several flights in Mexico from April-October.
Caterpillar hosts: Tahitian kidneywood (Eysenhardtia orthocarpa) in the pea family (Fabaceae).
Adult food: Flower nectar.
Habitat: Usually near water in desert mountains, canyons, and washes.
Range: Southern Arizona, southern New Mexico, west Texas, and Mexico.
