Observation date: May 30, 2025
Submitted by: Cascade Colors
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: I do not know what else it would be, but these are certainly the most patterned-looking azures I have ever seen. Two different locations - the first was approximately where I marked it on the map, the second picture was taken lower down with many of them at a wet muddy area. There were also a lot of orangetips flying along this whole stretch by 11am but unfortunately none were landing.
Status: Resident
Verified by: mikefisher
Verified date: June 01, 2025
Coordinator notes: Your suggested ID is correct...this is the Spring Azure found in western Colorado...populations described as the subspecies lumarco that have the underside of the hindwings patterned with dark blotches and wings margins in a high percentage of individuals...(form lucia has the blotch in the middle (your top photo is this one); form marginata has only the marginal border on the wing darkened with no blotch in the center; and form lucimargina displays both characters on the same individual...the one in your second photo is this one. Very interesting varieties. These forms are prevalent as such in colder winter "northern" climates and latitudes. Mike
