Species Page: Long Dash (Polites mystic)

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.