Introduction
The Pyrginae, popularly known as Flats or Spreadwings, are a cosmopolitan subfamily distributed across temperate and tropical habitats throughout the world. In the Americas there are 990 species.
The tribe Eudamini includes 44 genera in the Americas, amongst which are the Long-tailed Skippers Urbanus, Chioides and Aguna; and other familiar genera including Phocides, Autochton, Astraptes Pellicia and Calaenorrhinus.
The genus Autochton, previously known as Cecropterus, comprises of 13 smallish species which are characterised by having chocolate brown wings that bear a single white or creamy median band, and either 2 or 3 tiny apical spots. Most species also have a whitish margin to the hindwings. They can be distinguished by differences in the shape of the median band, the configuration and number of apical spots, and the pattern on the underside hindwings.
Autochton neis is the commonest and most widespread species in the genus, found from Mexico to Bolivia.
Habitats
This species occurs in forest edge habitats at altitudes between sea level and about 1500 metres.
Lifecycle
To be completed.
Adult behaviour
The butterflies are usually encountered singly, and normally seen basking with wings outspread on low foliage. In hot conditions they rest beneath leaves, with the wings erect or held slightly apart.
