Taylor’s Checkerspot Butterfly – Oregon Conservation Strategy

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Overview

Species Common Name Taylor’s Checkerspot Butterfly
Species Scientific Name Euphydryas editha taylori
Federal Listing Status Endangered

Ecoregions

Willamette Valley

The Willamette Valley ecoregion is bounded on the west by the Coast Range and on the east by the Cascade Range. This long mostly level alluvial plain has some scattered areas of low basalt, and contrasts with productive farmland and large urban areas. It has the fastest-growing human population in the state resulting in challenges due to land-use changes.

Special needs

Taylor's checkerspot butterflies occur in low-elevation upland prairies. They currently use the non-native narrow-leaved plantain as a host plant.

Limiting factors

The primary threats to Taylor's checkerspot butterflies are habitat loss and habitat alteration due to invasive plants and fire suppression.

Data gaps

Investigate habitat requirements and historical native host plants.

Conservation actions

Protect two remaining populations in Oregon (Beazell Meadow and Fitton Green). Maintain grassland habitat, increase plant diversity for nectar plants, and control key invasive non-native plants.