Description

The Long Dash (Polites mystic) is a small skipper butterfly with orange wings bordered in dark brown, a distinctive black dash on the forewings, and a checkered fringe, commonly found in meadows, grassy fields, and wetlands across eastern and central North America.

Range

It is found throughout the state.

Similar Species

Peck’s skipper has similar markings but is smaller.

Host Plants

Redtop (Agrostis gigantea), Timothy Grass (Phleum pratense), Bluegrasses (Poa spp.), Fescues (Festuca spp.), Other meadow grasses

Flight

Late-May to early august