Diet

• The larval food plants of Synapte silna are poorly documented.

• As with other members of Synapte, the caterpillars are associated with grasses and likely shelter within folded or silked leaves.

• Adults take nectar from flowering plants.

Range

• Synapte silna is a Mexican taxon with a relatively restricted distribution in western Mexico.

• It is associated with the Pacific-slope fauna of Mexico and occurs in the broader Zihua region.

Habitat

• It occurs in warm tropical and subtropical environments, particularly woodland edges, scrub, clearings and other areas supporting grasses.

• The species is likely most often encountered in relatively open vegetation bordering tropical forest.

• Adults of Synapte are generally fast-flying skippers and may perch on grasses and low vegetation.

Description

• A small, brown skipper with the characteristic subdued patterning of the genus Synapte.

• The upper surface is dark brown, with relatively indistinct yellowish or ochre markings on the forewing.

• The underside is lighter brown and finely marked with darker striations, providing effective camouflage among grasses and dry foliage.