Salmon-Challis National Forest

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Archiearis infans “The Infant” Geometridae

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
March 20, 2015
Robert Niese

When I first saw this flashy, day-flying moth, I immediately assumed it was a skipper butterfly! Took me a while to realize it was actually The Infant, an inchworm moth (Geometridae). This species is called “The Infant” because it is one of the very first moths to emerge from hibernation in the spring. This individual was fluttering around some moist gravel, sipping up water and minerals in the sunshine. Apparently, Song Sparrows have been observed hunting Infants in muddy areas like this, because it is one of the only times the moth is still enough to be captured. The Infant is found throughout the west in areas with birch and alder, and is the only member of this genus in North America.

Happy National Moth Week!

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Berberis repens “Creeping Oregon Grape” Berberidaceae

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
March 19, 2015
Robert Niese

It’s a little early for Oregon Grape to be blooming! This species is our only Berberis native to the dry pinelands of the Northwest.

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Juniperus scopulorum “Rocky Mountain Juniper” Cupressaceae

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
March 19, 2015
Robert Niese

Recent genetic evidence suggests that the Puget Sound populations of Juniperus scopulorum are actually a separate species (J. maritimus), although the two are nearly impossible to distinguish morphologically. The berries of both species are not particularly palatable, but make a good laxative.

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Nymphalis antiopa “Mourning Cloak” Nymphalidae

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
March 20, 2015
Robert Niese

Mourning Cloaks are very territorial butterflies and will aggressively defend their feeding sites against intruding insects and have even been known to chase off hummingbirds! Also, March is really early to be seeing these guys out and about. There are hardly any flowers blooming that early!

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Opuntia polyacantha “Plains Prickly Pear” Cactaceae

Salmon-Challis National Forest, ID
March 19, 2015
Robert Niese

Cacti are not really the kinds of plants I normally associate with the Pacific Northwest, but we have several species native to our area (two and some hybrids, really). They are commonly found in arid, open areas east of the Cascades, but can also be found on many of the islands throughout the Salish Sea!