Description

The Quino Checkerspot is a medium sized butterfly with a wingspan of about 3 cm. The wings are a patchwork of brown, red and yellow spots.

Range and Habitat

The Quino Checkerspot was once widespread throughout the coastal sage scrub areas of Southern California and Northern Baja California, it has been in rapid decline and is now limited to a few populations in Riverside and San Diego Counties.

Conservation Status

The Quino Checkerspot is listed as an endangered species under US federal law. It is suffering from loss of habitat and a recent study suggests that Global Warming may also be adversely affecting this butterfly. The October 2003 fires in San Diego and the ensuing disruption of its habitat may have had a devastating impact on the Quino Checkerspot.