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Butterflies of Zihuatanejo

SUPERFAMILY PAPILIONOIDEA

Veined White-Skipper

Heliopetes arsalte

Heliopetes arsalte, commonly known as the Veined White-Skipper, is a white butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It belongs to a group of spread-wing skippers that often rest with their wings held open. The wings are predominantly white to pale cream, marked with bold dark veins and margins, giving it a crisp, high-contrast appearance. This veined pattern is the key feature that distinguishes it from other white skippers. The underside is similar but often slightly softer in tone, sometimes with faint grey or brown shading. This species is found in Mexico, Central America, and parts of the southern United States, inhabiting open areas such as fields, scrub, roadsides, and disturbed habitats. Adults are often seen perching with wings spread flat or flying quickly between low vegetation.

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