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Close-up photo of live Mountain Parnassian butterfly

Boccard Point, Jackson Co,  July 5, female

Mountain Parnassian

Parnassius smintheus

Size: 2.0 - 2.5 inches wingspan

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Key ID features:  White/gray/translucent wings with red spots on the HW, and often with additional red patches bordered with black on FW.  Antennae are boldly black/white striped. Similar pattern below, with medial red spots having pink centers.

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Similar species:  Clodius Parnassian (Parnassius clodius), which is larger, usually has solid black antennae

 

Host plant: Stonecrops including Sedum obtusatum, S. lanceolatum

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Habitat: Primarily rocky outcroppings above 2500' elevation.

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Range: Siskiyou Mtns, Aldrich, Blue and Wallowa Mtns

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Season: Late June to late August.

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Abundance: Locally common

 

Conservation Status: Secure

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