Butterflies, Moths, Dragonflies & Damselflies of Dayton, Ohio

Baltimore Checkerspots are uncommon and highly localized butterflies. They are found in good-quality wetlands. Their primary host plant is white turtlehead. (Later instar caterpillars can utilize other plants as well.)

Underside of a Baltimore Checkerspot. This species has bold, colorful wing patterns. These beautiful butterflies have lost a great deal of habitat due to the destruction of Ohio's wetlands. 

Another Baltimore Checkerspot at Siebenthaler Fen. I have only seen this species at one other location, Travertine Fen. (Travertine Fen is not accessible without a permit, but many interesting species can be observed on the public bike path which runs along the edge of the fen.)  

This species has a very limited flight period. Baltimores usually fly from late May through the third week of June. 

A pair of Baltimore Checkerspots playing in the meadows at Siebenthaler Fen.