White-striped Longtails, like many
of the larger subtropical skippers, wander far north of their
permanent range. Many lay eggs on these jaunts, but the butterflies
remain resident only where warm weather permits; they survive
winters only in South Texas and southward.
Similar species:
Zilpa Longtail has white spot near tail, but lacks diagonal white
band.
Life Cycle: Eggs are white, becoming yellowish with age. Newly hatched
caterpillars are dull green, but mature to rose-colored with orange
stripes on the sides. Chrysalis is dark brown with waxy white bloom.
Host plants include many legumes, Mimosa, and beans.
Flight time:
Several broods, year-round in south Texas.
Habitat:
Woodland fringes, wooded hills, tropical forest clearings.
Range: South Texas and Arizona, south to Argentina; also West
Indies..
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