Appalachian Grizzled Skipper, Appalachian Checkered-Skipper
(Pyrgus wyandot, Pyrgus centaureae wyandot)

Compared to other species of Pyrgus (checkered-skippers), this taxon has bolder checked fringes and fewer white marks in the wings. Note especially the lack of a row of white sub-marginal dots on the dorsal wing surfaces -- compare to Common Checkered-Skipper.

Some authorities treat this taxon as a subspecies of the widespread Grizzled Skipper in northern and western North America. Regardless, this taxon is a Federal Species of Concern and is listed as Threatened to Endangered in at least seven different states.

Caterpillar host plants are reported to be various species of cinquefoil (Potentilla spp.), and Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana), both of which were abundant in the sight where these photos were taken.