Wing span: 4.5-5.5 cm.

Flight time: Initial southern strays arrive from late-April through May, and found at least three broods, the first emerging from late-June to mid-July, the second from August through early September, and a partial third from late-September to frost.

Status: Southern stray in spring and summer resident.

Distinguishing features: This butterfly is characterized by the variegated or mottled appearance of the under hindwing. On both sides, dorsal surface is brown basally to tan distally with a jagged black line between.

Distribution and habitat: Scattered frequently throughout the state where it occurs in various open habitats, including old fields, flower gardens, roadsides, parks, and prairies.

Natural History: Larvae consume a large variety of plants, including violets. Adult density often varies greatly from year to year, but they are only rarely seen in large numbers.