checkerspot

[chek-er-spot]

noun

1. any of several butterflies of the genus Melitaea, having black wings with yellowish-brown, checkerlike markings.

Word History and Origins

Origin of checkerspot¹

checker ¹ + spot

Example Sentences

For example, the Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly—a species that is susceptible to insecticides used to control moth pests—is shown as being present across 2 million hectares of Oregon and Washington state, including prime agricultural land.

Read more on Science Magazine

“Luna moths, Baltimore checkerspot butterflies, and wooly bear caterpillars tuck themselves into a pile of leaves for protection from cold weather and predators. Red-banded hairstreaks lay their eggs on fallen oak leaves. Swallowtail butterflies disguise their cocoons and chrysalis as dried leaves, blending in with the real leaves.”

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You might even spot the rare Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly.

Read more on Seattle Times

Like the Edith’s Checkerspot, a butterfly that is thriving at higher elevations, moving away from the heat.

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Several species native to the ecosystem, like Taylor’s checkerspot butterfly and the streaked horned lark, are threatened with extinction.

Read more on Seattle Times