Sagebrush Checkerspot
Common NameSagebrush Checkerspot
Scientific NameChlosyne acastus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyNymphalinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatArid sagebrush steppes, open areas with host plants, rocky slopes
Geographic RangeWestern North America (Great Basin, Rocky Mountains, Pacific Northwest)
Host PlantsArtemisia tridentata, Artemisia spp.
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFemales lay eggs in clusters on sagebrush. Larvae are gregarious initially, feeding on the host plant, and overwinter as partially grown larvae before pupating in spring.
Identification TipsIdentified by its distinctive bright orange and black checkered pattern, particularly the prominent black veins and cell outlines on the orange background. Its association with sagebrush habitats is a key indicator.
Description
A medium-sized butterfly with a vibrant checkered pattern of bright orange and black on its dorsal wing surfaces, and a similar but paler pattern on the ventral hindwings.
