Field Trip Report: Aspen Corner, Flagstaff by Marianne Jensen
July 23rd’s outing to Aspen Corner off Snowbowl Road in Flagstaff proved to be a wonderful break from the Valley heat. Pine and Aspen forests, meadows and a tank were full of activity. Although we had a slow beginning because of clouds, the twelve of us ended up spotting 18 species. Besides looking for butterflies, there were plenty of other critters to entertain us. The berm at the tank with wonderful views of the Mountains reflected in the water was a perfect place to have our snacks.
Butterflies: Northwestern (Atlantis) Fritillary, Weidemeyer's Admiral, Western Tiger Swallowtail, Mourning Cloak, Hoary Comma, Melissa Blue (a 1st for many! photo by Marianne Jensen), Boisduval’s Blue, Reakirt’s Blue, Silvery Blue, Greenish Blue, Marine Blue, Spring Azure, Afranius Duskywing, Meridian Duskywing, Taxiles Skipper, Garita Skipperling, Dainty Sulphur, Orange Sulphur..
Day Flying Moths: Veined Ctenucha Moth, Police Car Moth
Flies: Orange Tachinid Fly, Yellow-belted Tachinid Fly
Insects: Pleasing Fungus Beetle, Tiger Beetle
Aquatic: Arizona Tree Frog, Tiger Salamander larvae (ID thanks to Ron)
Reptiles: Short-horned Lizard
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