Melanie Weiss, Field Trip Coordinator

Given the mild winter weather so far, Washington’s butterfly season may surprise us with an early start this year. We are fortunate to have enthusiastic and knowledgeable community members volunteering as field trip leaders throughout our state. I especially appreciate this opportunity to visit quiet, out-of-the-way areas where butterflies are more commonly found. Each season my knowledge of Washington’s ecosystems expands as I explore new areas, and the camaraderie of trip participants is always a pleasure.

We are excited to share a sneak peek of some of the adventures being considered for WBA’s 2026 Field Trip Season. An early season visit to Mima Mounds in southwest Washington will showcase these unusual formations in stunning spring bloom, with a chance to spot the Hoary Elfin. As he did last year, David James will lead several trips focused on Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Washington. We’re also hoping to travel to Coeur d Alene, Idaho, for the inaugural release of radio-tagged Monarchs. Additional destinations include Hurricane Ridge and the Lake Cushman area on the Olympic Peninsula, areas we do not visit very often. Selah Cliffs and the Wild Horse Wind Farm, rich in native plants and butterfly diversity, may be new areas for some of us. With 2026 being an even year, a visit to Slate Peak will be especially rewarding, offering the chance to see two biennial, even-year species, the Astarte Fritillary and the Melissa Arctic. For those who live in the Seattle area, we are also planning a group visit to the Butterfly House at the Zoo or Science Center. And as always, keep an eye out for spontaneous “Flash Field Trips” popping up throughout the season.

Mark your calendars now! We would love to have you join us for our annual Butterfly Study Weekend taking place June 12-14 in the Goldendale area.

And don’t miss our second annual iNaturalist Big Butterfly Month, happening June 20 through July 20.

In the coming months we’ll send out a Noticeline with confirmed locations and dates, and the information will also appear on our website. Happy Butterflying 2026.

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