Status of the Appalachian Grizzled Skipper (Pyrgus centaureae wyandot) in Virginia

ABSTRACT The Appalachian grizzled skipper (Pyrgus centaureae wyandot) was documented historically (primarily from shale barren habitats) in 11 counties in Virginia. Between 1992 and 2002, staff of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Division of Natural Heritage, conducted 175 surveys for P. c. wyandot at 75 sites in 12 counties. The species was observed at only six sites during these surveys, representing two new county records. All observations since 1992 combined account for <80 individuals. Due to forest succession and threats from gypsy moth control measures, all recent sites for P. c. wyandot in Virginia may be degrading in overall habitat quality