It's the official butterfly of the state of Maryland but from time to time we come across Baltimore Checkerspots here in Indiana County. A colorful butterfly that uses the Turtlehead plant as its host. There were several of these puddling in a moist sandy area when we saw this one.
The garden at Old Smicksburg Park is dedicated to the former residents who once lived in this area. In the 1940s when the land was condemned for flood control purposes many fine homes and businesses were lost.
This Box Turtle decided to stop for a nap while crossing a rural dirt road in Indiana County. We moved it off the road so that it could continue to enjoy its nap in safety. Early June is when Box Turtles are often on the move, females to lay eggs and males to seek out other mates.
