This butterfly is another southern species that has expanded its range northward this year. The first record of this species in my local area was only last week at another site and it generated much discussion over its identity. Wild Indigo Duskywing is almost identical to the Columbine Duskywing, almost impossible to distinguish from the Columbine Duskywing, and since the latter is widespread in my local area this butterfly was assumed to be a Columbine Duskywing. Wild Indigo Duskywing had never been recorded this far north. But after considering many clues from time of year, wing size, and proximity of larval host plants, together it led to the conclusion this is indeed a Wild Indigo Duskywing.

Today we saw one female (above) nectaring on goldenrod and two males (below) hilltopping nearby.