Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos arogos)

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos)

One of our rarest butterflies -- the eastern subspecies is endangered and known from only a few high-quality longleaf pine savannahs in NC. Tiny (about the size of a Tawny-edged Skipper) but one of the favorites of most people who've seen one; the sight of one always bring a smile to your face.
Carteret Co., NC 8/28/05.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos)

The undersides are a dull orange with pale veining. Could possibly be confused with a worn Delaware Skipper, which is larger and lacks the pale veining.
Carteret Co., NC 8/24/03.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos)

They are often seen sitting on top of flowers of Balduina uniflora (Yellow Balduina), which is about the only nectar source in their habitat. Male, Carteret Co., NC 8/24/03.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos) This was the first butterfly photo I ever took - nice way to start!
Carteret Co., NC 8/19/01.
Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos) Male, Carteret Co., NC 8/24/03.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos) Male, Carteret Co., NC 8/24/03.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos) Male, Carteret Co., NC 8/24/03.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos) A more worn example.
Carteret Co., NC 8/29/04.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos) Carteret Co., NC 8/29/04.

Despite appearances here, Arogos Skippers do use other nectar sources when they are available!

North Carolina Butterflies

Revised 9/1/05 cwcook@duke.edu