Post by joee30 on May 23, 2018 15:33:10 GMT -8
Went to Spanish Springs Valley just north of Sparks, NV in search of the Sheridan's green Hairstreak(Callophrys sheridani). Hit up a Juniper woodland habitat, and although there were no Sheridan's greens to be found, found that out local Juniper Hairstreaks(Callophrys gryneus chalcosiva) were out in decent numbers. Found a mating pair in this locality that I collected for rearing purposes. Along with the juniper hairstreaks, there were desert marbles(Euchloe hyantis lotta), large marbles(Euchloe ausonides), a large Bauer's blue female(Euphilotes baueri), and many Sagebrush Checkerspots(Chlosyne acastus). The weather was fair, with temps in the mid 70's. Got a thunderstorm to the east around noon, which made it partly cloudy, but the butterflies were very active. After a very productive hike, headed to Lemmon Valley to check out the Juniper woodlands there. The juniper hairstreaks were more abundant, and very fresh. There were up to 6-7 in a juniper. Found another mating pair, and a nectaring female, which were collected for rearing. Found a desert marble, but a storm put an end to the day. Found some pieridae larvae in some Arabis, which I regret not collecting.