Observation date: October 20, 2018
Submitted by: WinterSax
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This moth was on a dirt road at about 9,000ft. The weather was sunny and was probably in the 60sF. The moth was resting on the dirt, and would flutter and change position if approached too closely. There had already been a first snow of 6", which by the time of the siting had nearly completely melted.
Status: Resident
Verified by: A_baldini
Verified date: November 04, 2018
Coordinator notes: This is actually a species of butterfly (specifically a spread-wing skipper) known as the Common Checkered-Skipper. Between the late observation date, the 6" snow that had already occurred in the area, and the elevation (it's always a surprise to see this species above 8,000 feet or so), this a very good observation. It's debatable whether the Common Checkered-Skipper is even a true resident at this high of an elevation, though in southern Colorado it more likely is. Thanks for the submission!
