Sleepy Duskywing

Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Arthropoda
• Class: Insecta
• Order: Lepidoptera
• Family: Hesperiidae
• Subfamily: Pyrginae
• Genus: Erynnis
• Species: Erynnis brizo

Common Names by Region

• North America: Sleepy Duskywing
• Scientific Community: Erynnis brizo

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Description

• Wingspan: 32–41 mm (1.25–1.6 in)
• Coloration: Dark brown with subtle mottling; forewings feature faint bands and light spots, while hindwings have a more uniform appearance.
• Markings: Often confused with other duskywings, Erynnis brizo lacks the more prominent white spotting seen in some related species.
• Flight Pattern: Low, erratic, and fast-moving, favoring dry woodlands and clearings.

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Habitat & Range

• Native Range: Eastern and Central North America, spanning from the Great Lakes to Florida and westward to parts of Texas.
• Preferred Habitat: Oak woodlands, scrubby fields, pine barrens, and dry, sandy areas with abundant host plants.

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Life Cycle & Behavior

• Larval Host Plants: Various oak species (Quercus spp.), particularly scrub oaks.
• Adult Diet: Feeds on nectar from flowers such as Ceanothus, Lupinus, and other low-growing blooms.
• Reproduction: Eggs are laid singly on host plant leaves. Larvae construct leaf shelters as they develop.
• Overwintering Stage: Pupae overwinter in leaf litter before emerging in spring.
• Broods: Typically one brood per year in northern regions, with two in warmer southern areas.

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Conservation Status

• IUCN Status: Not officially assessed, but populations appear stable within their natural range.
• Threats: Habitat destruction due to urbanization and deforestation, loss of host plants, pesticide exposure.
• Conservation Measures: Preservation of oak woodlands and open habitats critical for larval development.

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Additional Notes

• Special Features: Despite its name, the “sleepy” duskywing is highly active during the day and does not display lethargic behavior.
• Mimicry & Camouflage: Dark coloration and erratic flight help it evade predators.
• Role in Ecosystem: Important pollinator and a key prey species for birds and predatory insects.