Male Horace's DuskywingEnlarge

MaleEnlarge

 

Horace's Duskywing (Erynnis horatius)

This Duskywing butterfly is chocolate colored with some contrasting light and dark browns and a few light colored markings. They are usually found basking in the sun in open areas. Their host plants are many species of Oak trees. They are fast fliers and will typically visit flowers that reach up to 4.5 feet tall. Males will often look for females as they sit on branches close to the ground. These butterflies are lovely to observe in your gardens.

Family: Skipper (Hesperiidae)

Subfamily: Spread-wing Skipper (Pyrginae)

Average Wingspan: 1 1/4" - 1 3/4"

Habitat: Fields, meadows, roadsides

Similar To: Wild Indigo Duskywing

Plants That Attract This Butterfly

• Nectar Plants (What is this?)
  Lavender, Boneset, Buttonbush, Dogbane*, Goldenrod*
  
• Host Plants (What is this?)
  Oak Tree

* May not be available for purchase at your local nursery.

Note: Always check a plant's Hardiness Zone to make sure it will grow in your area. (What Is My Hardiness Zone?)

Where To Buy Plants

Butterfly Flight Range Map

Photo Credits:
Male (open wing) - Fred Miller
Male (closed wing) - Fred Miller