Species distribution maps & data

Distribution maps, like the one below, are generated for each species from two sets of data: first, a “historical record” from the United States Geological Society (USGS), dating from before the year 2000. This historical information is not always accurate because of new understandings of species and subspecies complexes, misidentified or mislabeled specimens, lack of collaboration, or loss of database records.

Distribution map for the Dun Skipper, showing the historical record and post-2000 additions.

The newer data, which I have gathered as the state contact for the USGS survey, is subdivided and color-coded depending on whether the species has been sighted, photographed, or collected for a museum specimen. This information is still incomplete but is constantly being improved, as the maps are automatically updated as sightings are submitted through this website and reviewed.

The historical record is represented on the county maps with a black square, and the new data as distinct colors (blue for a sighting, green for a photograph, and red for a museum specimen).

The hope is that, as the data is updated, we will be better able to see any changes in distribution of the native species.