Observation date: June 21, 2022
Submitted by: Janet Ruth
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: I am somewhat confused by this pair - as far as I could tell, all photos are of the same two individuals. Mostly looked like Marine Blue with 1/2 spots on hind wing upper/lower; coppery upper on what I take to be the male but much more white fringing on fore and hind wings upper in male than the guide shows. Also wondered about the behavior in the last photo since it appeared the female was on top and I understand the most butterflies mate abdomen to abdomen???
Status: Resident
Verified by: stevecary
Verified date: July 01, 2022
Coordinator notes: Ruth, you came upon a male and a female discussing reproductive options. The blue male is relatively fresh, with an intact white fringe. The female has a more mottled gray/tan upperside. It is quite worn and the fringe is largely worn away. When an amorous male approaches a female, she may be inclined to go along and they maneuver to join at their abdominal ends. Or she may not be interested, indicating that by flapping her wings and generally not allowing a close approach. I would interpret the behavior you observed as a form of the latter. thank you for documenting this!
