Calpodes ethlius, Brazilian Skipper

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Adult male basking in the sun

Description: 23-27 mm. This is a large brown skipper with multiple translucent cream colored spots on the forewing and the hindwing.

Habitat and Distribution: This species is very localized to places where host plant occurs but there can be locally common. It has been found in many Keys from Key Largo to Key West. Their larval host is a fresh water lily which suggests that ornamental canna lilies planted in urban areas keeps this species going in the Keys. They are found throughout Florida, and are widespread in Central and South America

Host Plant: Leaves of Canna sps. 

Natural History: This species can be found just about year around but is likely migratory. I found a home in Big Pine Key that has ornamental Canna lilies and found adults consistently 

Adult male basking in the sun

Final instar larva

Final instar larva

Headcapsule of Larva

Translucent skin of Larva

Chrysalis

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