Hoffmann's Checkerspot
Image: Mount Rainier NPS (CC BY 2.0)
Common NameHoffmann's Checkerspot
Scientific NameChlosyne hoffmanni
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatSubalpine meadows, open forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from British Columbia south through the Cascades and Sierra Nevada to central California and Nevada
Host PlantsCastilleja miniata, Castilleja applegatei
Flight PeriodLate June to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are gregarious in early instars, feeding on Indian Paintbrush, and overwinter as partially grown larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate checkered pattern of dark veins and light spots on the hindwing underside, its relatively dark appearance, and its presence in subalpine habitats of western North America, often near Indian Paintbrush.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a complex checkered pattern of dark brown and dull orange spots and bands on both upper and lower wing surfaces, often appearing quite dark overall.
