Not all of the spring butterflies are colorful. During a recent hike in a forested area of Prince William County in Northern Virginia, I spotted numerous duskywing butterflies. These small butterflies are part of the skipper family (Hesperiidae) and are considered to be “spread-wing” skippers, because they typically perch with their wings held flat open rather than closed over their backs.
There are several different duskywing species that are differentiated by the patterns on their wings. I am not certain of this identification, but I believe that this may be a Juvenal’s Duskywing butterfly (Erynnis juvenalis). I encourage you to click on the image to get a closer look at this small butterfly’s beautiful colors and patterns,
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 