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Persius' Dusky-wing
Butterfly.--This is a very variable species, some specimens being light and others dark in color. There is scarcely any positive clue to the specific identity of the insect except that which is derived from the study of the genital armature of the male, which is a microscopic research capable of being performed only by an expert in such matters. The student may be pardoned if, in attempting to classify the species of this genus, and the present species in particular, he should grow weary, and quote a few biblical expressions relating to Beelzebub, the "god of flies." Expanse, 1.20-1.45 inch.
Early Stages.--The caterpillar feeds on willows. Scudder has with patient care described its life-history.
The insect ranges from New England southward, and inland across the continent to the Pacific.