Fiery Skipper
(Hylephila phyleus)
Fiery Skipper sightings, by week (about)
Click to enlargeN. of Cassville, Grant Co., Wi. July 29, 2007.
Click to enlargeMale, Wautoma, Waushara Co., WI. October 11, 2002.
Click to enlargeFemale, Wautoma, WI. October 10, 2002.
Click to enlargeRotary Gardens, Janesville, Rock Co., WI. August 22, 2007.
Click to enlargeHigh Cliff State Park, Calumet Co., WI. August 1, 2006.
Click to enlargeFemale, Edge of Lake Montesian, Monticello, Green Co., WI. September 3, 2005.
Click to enlargeEdge of Lake Montesian, Monticello, Green Co., WI. September 3, 2005.
The Fiery Skipper is a common species throughout the southern U.S. and moves north nearly every year. It probably gets to Wisconsin regularly, although is not usually very common, and should be looked for in the southern half of the state from late July through the first frost. I look for this species, especially in flower gardens in towns, throughout the southern counties each year in hope of seeing this species. 2006 was a banner year for this species in Wisconsin as it was seen in six counties. I saw and photographed this species in Eau Claire County on July 18th, the first time that I had ever seen this species before September, and the farthest north that I had ever seen it. On August 1 I also saw a single individual in Calumet County, a second county record and again a very early sighting. This species was reported throughout southern Wisconsin and I saw 19 at the Rotary Gardens in Janesville on October 1. Before this year my previous high for the day had been a single individual! 2007 was even a better year for seeing this skipper with individuals making it all the way to Lake Superior, the farthest north that this species has been recorded in the United States and being reported from 19 counties.
Identifying characteristics: Below, the male of this skipper is a very bright orange skipper with a dark spots. The female is similar but not a more dull orange. Above, the male is orange with a very jagged black margin and a black stigma. The female is similar but with more bold dark markings.
Similar species: None in Wisconsin.
Habitat: Old fields, roadsides, and flower gardens.
Flight: This species is multiple-brooded in the southern part of its range, but is a stray in Wisconsin. It may enter the state from the south in mid-summer and a second, local brood may occur. Most sightings for this species are in late summer.
Abundance: This species, being a stray, is most often seen singly, but it is possible for local populations to become established and this species to become fairly common.
Recent Fiery Skipper Sightings
| Date seen | County | Reported by |
|---|---|---|
| 08–16–2008 | Green | Ann Thering and Dave Eide |
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Fiery Skipper
Hylephila phyleus