Pepper and Salt Skipper

Amblyscirtes hegon

An early season woodland skipper that is often found flying with the Hobomok Skipper and the Arctic Skipper. I did not see this species until 2003, but I have seen it every year since and at numerous sites. Still, this skipper is not a common skipper in the state and it is a pleasant surprise to see it. In 2007 I saw nine along a single trail in Price County, the most I have ever seen in one day.

Identifying characteristics

Below, it is a reddish-brown skipper with a gray dusting that obscures a light spot band and makes it appear somewhat white. The fringe is obviously checkered, especially on the forewing. Above, it has some gray scaling mainly near the wing margins, several white spots in the middle of the forewing, and three postmedian spots.

Similar species

The Common Roadside-Skipper is a similarly sized skipper that might be flying at the same time and in the same area. This skipper does have a checkered fringe, but does not have the Pepper and Salt Skipper’s obvious white spots in the center of the upper forewing, and from below has frosting only on the trailing edges of the wings.

Habitat

Mainly seen along trails through woodlands or woodland edges.

Flight

One brood from late May to late June.

Abundance

An uncommon butterfly that is not usually found in large numbers.

Late Pepper and Salt Skipper Sightings

Date	County	Reported by
Jun 25, 2013	Chippewa	Aaron Carlson
Jun 26, 2014	Dunn	Pam Campbell
Jun 28, 2008	Portage	Wayne Anderson
Jun 28, 2008	Bayfield	Ryan Brady
Jul 5, 2022	Dunn	Pam Campbell

Locations