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Butterflies of Zihuatanejo

SUPERFAMILY PAPILIONOIDEA

Zilpa Longtail

Chioides zilpa

Chioides zilpa, commonly known as the Zilpa Longtail, is a large and distinctive skipper butterfly in the family Hesperiidae. It is notable for its elongated hindwing tails. The upper side of the wings is typically dark brown to black, marked with small pale or translucent spots, especially on the forewings. Unlike the White-striped Longtail, it lacks a bold continuous band, instead showing a more scattered spotting pattern. The underside is generally brown with lighter markings, helping it remain camouflaged when at rest. This species occurs in Mexico and Central America, inhabiting tropical forests, edges, and clearings. Adults are strong, fast fliers, often seen moving rapidly along forest edges or perching briefly on leaves.

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