Might be a helpful view for some
Vagans on the right
Sandersoni on the left
Don’t mind how beat up the specimens are
This is a confusing skipper. At a relatively high elevation. Appears to be an extremely fresh individual.
Seems like a cross between a Skipper and a Hairstreak with that matte olive green on the ventral surfaces! This will take some work on my part unless anyone knows better.
Out of the hibernaculum and feeding on native cherry tree. This is the medium sized of 3 caterpillars that overwintered here.
Experts - What is going on here? This male American Kestrel sure did seem to have the hots for this female Merlin. He kept trying to get close to her and even brought her a few treats (insects?) from the grass beneath the fence. She accepted the treats but didn't seem thrilled with the attention. However, when he flew off, she followed him...