April 5 - Lambs Canyon Road

 Happy Easter!

Sunny day with the temps back in the mid-60s.

Heading up to walk the Lambs Canyon road to see what butterflies might be left after the 2feet of mountain snow and below freezing temps. Park City high elevations got around foot so I'm thinking Lambs Canyon road got 3-5 inches.

I arrive just after noon. It's sunny with temps in the mid-50s. The road is clear at the start (yea!).

I'm also seeing the first forget-me-knots of the year!! Also the OregonGrape is blooming and the Bisquitroot is about to bloom.

It's really greening up now. Guess all the rain helped moved things along.

My fears are relieved quickly when I reach the snowmobile pull-out and see a couple of Azures.

Continuing up, I find a few Mylitta Crescents and CA Tortoiseshells and Mourning Cloaks. Last time I was here, I saw Mourning Cloak; today, at least 6. But CA Tortoieshell numbers are down. They are overwinter-ers so it's more likely the end of a cycle.

Also see more of the Spotted Moths.

There is some west side/forest edge snow in spots but otherwise a clear road.

Nearing the trailhead, I see a few Orangetips.

But the TH is far less active than last time. There are a couple of Azures (last time 30) and a couple of CA Tortoiseshells. Noticeably absent, the Commas.Again that couple be lifecycle thing.

I do see some small orange flyers near the toilet but don't stop to really check them out; assuming Mylittas.

On the return trip, I find one of my favorites; the little green Sheridan's Hairstreak!

And a Rocky Mountain Duskywing!

Good day!

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