May 4, 2026
On May 4th, nine WBA members enjoyed a memorable survey in the Cushman area of Olympic National Forest: Tanna Knouse, Karen Holtrop, Jeannette Barreca, Travis Thurber, Cathy Clark, Dan Dunphy, Melanie Weiss, Paulette Murphy, and Liz Kuehn.
Despite some initial uncertainty around wildfire-burned areas, the day proved to be a rewarding one, with the group documenting 16 butterfly species. Among the species observed were Echo and Silvery Blues, Satyr and Hoary Commas, California Tortoiseshells, Julia’s Orangetips, Pale Swallowtails, Painted Ladies, Silver-spotted Skipper, Two-banded Checkered Skippers, and Green Hairstreaks.
Please note that the Staircase and Lake Cushman area remains closed for public safety. For the latest trail, road, and fire closure updates, check the Olympic National Forest website.
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Karen Holtrop
WBA Board Secretary, Field Trip Leader and Taylor’s checkerspot expert