Invertebrates

Several Lepidoptera of conservation concern could occur in high-elevation forests where host plants are present. The rare butterfly early hairstreak (Erora laeta;) is found in high-elevation deciduous forests with beech (Fagus grandifolia), especially along road edges, and has been documented on neighboring Mount Jefferson. Both the gray comma (Polygonia progne), butterfly and barred Itame (Itame subcessaria) moth are found in rich forests near gooseberry (Ribes; LeGrand et al. 2012). Moist clearings, seeps, and streambanks with violets (Viola) in high-elevation forest could support Atlantis fritillary (Speyeria atlantis). Beech, gooseberries, and violets are all abundant on the Jones Tract. The rare Great Tiger Moth (Arctia caja) occurs in high-elevation hardwoods, and has a number of host plants. The Appalachian azure (Celastrina neglectamajor), a vulnerable butterfly, requires moist forests with black cohosh. It has been recorded on nearby Mount Jefferson.