Wing span:

Flight time:Up to four broods emerge over the growing season. The first occurs from late April to late May, the second from late June to early July, the third from late July to mid August, with a possible fourth brood emerging from early September to early October. Native populations in Loess Hills prairie appear bivoltine with early May and July flights.

Status: Once a very rare breeding resident, populations have recently expanded, and it is now uncommon, but of regular occurrence, across the state.

Distinguishing features: This species is very similar to the Columbine Duskywing, being on average larger and darker in color. It often possesses a lighter brown patch just proximal to the row of upper forewing clear spots. However, the only consistent characteristics distinguishing these species are their larval host plant choices.

Distribution and habitat: Until the mid-1980's this species was very rare and limited in Iowa to dry prairies supporting large colonies of Wild Indigo (Baptisia spp.). Most verified colonies were restricted in the west to the Loess Hills and in the northeast to limestone and sandstone glades. Since this time, however, a race originating in Pennsylvania that eats Crown Vetch (Coronilla varia) has rapidly moved through Iowa along roadside ditches where this plant has been planted. It is now know from scattered sites across the entire state.

Natural History: Depending upon the population, Wild Indigo (especially the Cream Wild Indigo, Baptisia leucophaea) or Crown Vetch (Coronilla varia) is used as larval hosts.