Alabama Butterfly Atlas

Hobomok Skippers are northern-based butterflies whose range extends south. Their close cousins, Zabulon Skippers, are southern-based butterflies whose range extends north.  These similar species were once called Northern Golden Skipper and Southern Golden Skipper and can easily be confused with each other in sites where both fly. Although ventral hindwing markings are different, Hobomoks and Zabulons tend to perch with their wings partly spread, making viewing the crucial field marks frustratingly difficult. In addition, the two species occur in similar habitats.  For specific information about how to identify Hobomok Skippers, click the "Get Identification Help" link above. 

Females of this handsome species have two distinct color forms. The lighter one resembles the male, while the darker form (called “Pocahontas”) resembles female Zabulon Skippers. It is estimated that dark form females occur 25%-50% in the East. 

Hobomok Skippers are woodland butterflies, and although they may wander in search of nectar sources, they seldom stray far from forested areas. Males perch on branches five or six feet above the ground and aggressively defend their territories— “dogfights” are common. Females lay single eggs on host grass blades.  Caterpillars live in rolled leaf shelters and usually eat at night.  Partially grown larvae overwinter in a tightly silked tubular shelter.  They complete development the following spring.

Hobomok Skippers range over much of the eastern and central United States, reaching northward into Canada.  This northern-based species reaches its southernmost limits in Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. It is possible that it may experience range contraction due to climate change.