Zela Metal-Mark
Emesis zela
Photographed along the upper East Verde River, Gila Co., Arizona, USA. 18 May 2013.
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Metal-marks are a largely tropical group of butterflies with only about 20 kinds north of Mexico. They tend to be brightly marked with usually at least some markings appearing like copper or gold. They are all small - the one shown here has a wingspan of 30 mm and is among the larger species. It can be found on the wing from early spring until the end of the summer rains.
Riodinidae -- Metal-Mark Family
More Information:
- Butterflies and Moths of North America
- Bugguide - Iowa State University
- Google Images
- Google Scholar Literature Search