Puddling-behavior
Guides
Euphydryas editha
Edith's Checkerspot
Euphydryas editha is a checkerspot butterfly native to western North America, notable for extensive phenotypic variation across its range including differences in coloration, wing length, and body size. The species has been intensively studied for over 40 years as a model organism for metapopulation ecology, population dynamics, and conservation biology. Many populations are monophagous, relying on specific host plants for larval development. The species exhibits complex population dynamics with frequent local extinctions and recolonizations, and has experienced significant range-wide declines linked to climate change.
Eurytides marcellus
Zebra Swallowtail
Eurytides marcellus, commonly known as the zebra swallowtail, is a striking swallowtail butterfly native to eastern North America. It is immediately recognizable by its distinctive black-and-white longitudinal stripes, triangular wings, and long swordlike tails. The species exhibits strong ecological dependence on pawpaw trees (Asimina spp.), which serve as the exclusive larval host plants. Two seasonal forms occur: spring forms are smaller with shorter tails and more white coloration, while summer forms are larger with broader black stripes and longer tails. The zebra swallowtail is the official state butterfly of Tennessee and has been documented as far north as southern Canada, with recent range expansions facilitated by pawpaw plantings.
Leptotes marina
Marine Blue, Striped Blue
Leptotes marina is a small butterfly in the family Lycaenidae, commonly known as the Marine Blue or Striped Blue. Adults have a wingspan of 22–29 mm with blue uppersides and brown-banded undersides marked with two blue spots on the hindwings. The species occurs from South America through Mexico to the southern United States, with adults active year-round in the south and from April to September in northern populations. Larvae feed on a diverse range of leguminous plants including Astragalus, Prosopis, and Wisteria.