Edith's
Checkerspot
Euphydryas editha
Size: Up to 2.25 inch wingspan
Key ID features: Above black with alternating red and white spot bands separated by black lines. HW below has red and white bands, which, from the margin run red-white-red-red-white.
Similar species: Snowberry checkerspot has red-white-red-white-white band pattern on HW below.
Host plant: Several species in the figwort family, including paintbushes (Castilleja), penstemons, and monkeyflowers.
Habitat: Commonly in subalpine and alpine meadows, sage-steppe. Frequently found on the highest point of the area. Also in arid river canyons in spring.
Range: Cascade Range, Siskiyous, central Coast Range, parts of the Blue Mtns, Wallowa Mtns, and SE Oregon.
Season: Late May to late July
Abundance: Common
Conservation Status: Secure, except ssp. taylori, which is listed as Endangered under the Endangered Species Act.