Afranius Duskywing
(Gesta afranius – formerly Erynnis afranius)
Spread-wing Skippers
Appearance: Small brown duskywing; difficult to separate from Persius Duskywing, especially as they age and wear. Above, often has a brown patch on the outer forward wing edge and lacks gray hairs that give Persius its “soft” look. The hindwing dorsal surface is more uniform in color with fewer markings.
Wingspan: Small; 7/8 to 1 3/8 inches.
Habitat: Prairie, canyons and draws, meadows; foothills (uncommon species in our area).
Flight Times: April through June; 2 broods.
Larval Foodplant: Lupines, Golden Banner, legumes.
Did You Know…
Adults nectar on Golden Banner.
