Arachne Checkerspot
Common NameArachne Checkerspot
Scientific NamePoladryas arachne
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, canyons, foothills, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas) and northern Mexico
Host PlantsPenstemon
Flight PeriodApril to July
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plants. Larvae are gregarious, feeding on Penstemon, and overwinter before pupating in the spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its specific orange and black checkered pattern on the upperside, particularly the arrangement of black markings, and its association with Penstemon host plants in its southwestern range.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a striking orange and black checkered pattern across its wings, often featuring a row of white spots along the outer margins of the hindwings.
