The Tropical Checkered Skipper (Burnsius oileus) gets its name from two features: Tropical indicates its range from the Southern US through Central America, while Checkered describes the distinctive checkerboard pattern of dark brown and white/light spots on its wings. A speedy, small butterfly known for its rapid, low flight, it thrives in warm, open, grassy spots, often seen basking with wings open. It has a wide range from the southern US through the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America, all the way to Argentina.
© BirdsImageStock