How can you learn to identify butterflies, especially to distinguish among several kinds that look very much alike?
Specialists visit our collection to study in detail our many samples of butterflies. For example, environmental consultants like to study our Quino Checkerspot specimens and compare them with similar species. This can help them pass a test administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service that verifies their ability to identify this endangered species.
We are pleased to be able to provide access to specimens from the SDNHM Entomology Collection for the purpose of studying for the Quino checkerspot permitting test.
The study collection is available by appointment only. Please arrange your visit at least one week in advance. If it is necessary to cancel a visit, please give at least 24 hours notice. Individuals who make appointments, then fail to show without advance notice will be denied access to the collection.
To help offset the costs associated with maintaining the study collection and providing space and access to the specimens, a fee of $150 is charged. This fee covers all visits by an individual within a 12-month period for the purpose of using the butterfly study collection. The fee (cash or check payable to the SDNHM) is due at the beginning of the first visit.
As professionals with respect for non-renewable resources, all visitors are asked to abide by the following rules for handling and use of the collection:
To book an appointment to use the Quino Checkerspot Study Set for the USFWS Quino test, please contact:
Pam Horsley, Entomology Collection Manager and Collections Registrar, at 619-255-0193 or phorsley@sdnhm.org