Silvery Checkerspot (Chlosyne nycteis)

Description: A medium sized brown and orange butterfly. The upperside is orange with brown bands. There is a submarginal band of dark brown spots, several of which have white centers. The underside of the hindwing has two bands of silvery white oval spots (the more basal band being much whiter) and a large silvery crescent along the dark margin. It is generally similar to the fritillaries and Harris’s Checkerspot, however none of these species have the pronounced single large silver crescent on the underside of the hindwing. Wingspan: 33 to 45 mm.

Maritime Distribution: Widespread in New Brunswick, known from one location in southern Nova Scotia. For Atlas results click here.

Provincial Ranks: NB: S4. NS: S1?. PEI: -.

Flight Period: Early June to early July.

Host Plant: A variety of species in the aster family (Asteraceae).

Notes: Uncommonly found in a variety of dry woodland habitats. Unlike Harris’s Checkerspot, it is rarely found in large numbers, showing up singly or in pairs along field edges, roadsides, and clearings where the host plant grows. Its relatively brief flight period is earlier than Harris’s, although the two overlap.