Zestos Skipper (Epargyreus zestos [Geyer])
Wing span: 1 3/4 - 2 3/8 inches (4.5 - 6 cm).
Identification: Upperside is brown-black with a transparent gold stripe across the middle of the forewing. Underside of hindwing is reddish brown and usually has no silver mark.
Life history: Males patrol for females; adults have an erratic flight.
Flight: January-November in south Florida.
Caterpillar hosts: Galactia in the pea family (Fabaceae).
Adult food: Nectar from flowers including Bidens, Lantana, and Bougainvillea.
Habitat: Subtropical coastal scrub.
Range: Southern Florida and the Keys; the West Indies.
