Long Dash
Polites mystic (W. H. Edwards, 1863)
Family: Hesperiidae
Status: Uncommon to common local resident.
NENHP Ranking: S3, Tier 2
Range: The Long Dash is found in a wide swath in northern United Sates and southern Canada. In Nebraska the species inhabits the northwestern half of the state.
Larval Hostplant(s): Grasses: Agropyron repens, Echinochloa crusgalli and Poa species.
Broods/Flight Times: This species flies in a single flight, and in Nebraska has been reported from June 15 – July 20.
Overwintering: As a partially grown caterpillar.
Habitat: The Long Dash is primarily a wetland/riparian species in Nebraska.
Avg. Wingspan: 7/8 – 1 3/8 Inches
Found at: Wildcat Hills and Victoria Springs SRAs, Niobrara Valley Preserve, Ash Hollow SHP
Similar Species: Tawny-edged and Crossline Skippers
Notes: While widespread it is only occasionally abundant.
Long Dash, Wildcat Hills SRA, Jonathan Nikkila
