Persius (?) Duskywing (2 of 3)

Description:

A Duskywing that seems to most closely match Erynnis persius. This was a "hilltop" location favored by E. persius males. There is a sharp contrast in the gray forewings and gray-brown hindwings. The multiple forewing spots are usually described as white but may be appearing yellow here because of the intensity of the setting sun. The hindwing fringe is normally described as creamy white but here again appears yellow. Forewing fringe here also appears light/yellow which differs from most descriptions.The antennal club should be hooked. While difficult to see, at high magnification that can be seen to some degree here. This butterfly is visiting Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Balsamorhiza sagittata.May 9, 2012, Mile High FS property, Olympus foothills, Salt Lake County, Utah, approx. 5160 ft. elev., fixed length lens (not zoom; no adjustments).