208 IMOTHS AND BUTTERFLIES. 



one of yellow down the middle of tlie back. The insect inhabits the 

 eastern, middle and western states. 



X 



Thecla augustus. 



Thecla augustus is a common little butterfly throughout New 

 England early in the spring, and is often seen on the wing soon after 

 the snow has left. The lower wings are sliglitly scalloped, and a 

 prominent rounded projection is located at the inner angle. The 

 upper surface is wlioU^^ dark brown without markings of any kind. 

 On the under side the upper Avings are yellowish brown on their 



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IMF 



Thecla augustus. Under side. 



outer third, while a broad area of reddish brown, outlined with a 

 faint black mark, occupies most of the remainder of the surface, the 

 lower margin being grayish. The outer half of tlie lower wings is 

 reddish brown, with a row of small black dots running through the 

 middle from the upper to the lower margin. The basal half of the 

 wing is dark reddish brown, with an irregular outline, edged with a 

 faint black line. Tlie body and legs are gray. 



It is frequently found in company with Tliecla niplion. It is not 

 a rapid flyer in comparison with other species of this genus, but it is 

 so small and plain in color that it is liable to escape observation. 



This genus of Theda is so well represented in our countiy, some 

 species are so exquisitely colored, the shapes and habits of many 



