Species Insects & ArthropodsBaltimore Checkerspot

Baltimore Checkerspot

Euphydryas phaeton

UncommonInsect & Arthropod
Illustration of Baltimore Checkerspot (Euphydryas phaeton)

The Baltimore Checkerspot is a boldly patterned butterfly with black wings checkered with white spots and edged in orange-red, making it one of the most striking species in eastern North America. It is Maryland's state insect. Larvae are gregarious and overwinter communally in silk nests before emerging to feed in spring.

Habitat
Wet meadows, bogs, and open woodland edges
Diet
Larvae: turtlehead and plantain. Adults: nectar
How common
Uncommon

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