Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos arogos)

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos)

One of the rarest butterflies in North Carolina. The eastern subspecies is endangered and known from only a few high-quality longleaf pine savannahs in the state. 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, lacks the pale veining, and has orange hindwing fringe. The hindwing fringe in Arogos is tan, contrasting with the orangish wing color.

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 the most common nectar source in their habitat.

Male, Carteret Co., NC 8/24/03.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos)

Carteret Co., NC 8/31/08.

Arogos Skipper (Atrytone arogos)

This was the first butterfly photo I ever took, a superfresh Arogos -- 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)

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

Carteret Co., NC 8/29/04.

Arogos Skippers are usually quite approachable and will sit still for a long time.

Carteret Co., NC 8/31/08.

All photographs and text ©2013 by Will Cook unless otherwise noted.