Variable Checkerspot Butterfly

Description:

The Variable Checkerspot or Chalcedon Checkerspot (Euphydryas chalcedona) is a species of butterfly, common in western North America from Alaska to Baja California and from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. A highly variable species, the wing upper surface is black to dark brown. The forewing is narrow and pointed compared to similar species. The wingspan is 32 millimetres (1.3 in) – 57 millimetres (2.2 in). Adult butterflies feed on nectar from flowers. Caterpillars feed on a variety of plants including snowberry (Symphoricarpos), paintbrush (Castilleja) and Buddleja. Wikipedia

Habitat:

Feeding on Dichelostemma sp blossom along Olympia Trail in Mount Diablo State Park, Clayton, CA.