The Checkerspot Butterfly was once a vibrant part of spring in San Mateo County, but today's it's hard to spot a single one. Exhaust fumes from Highway 280 have contributed to the decline of this tiny butterfly, making it a victim of what is called "drive-by extinction." QUEST follows a biologist in Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve as he works to bring back the Checkerspot.
You may also listen to this report online, as well as see and discuss geotagged photos from our visit to Edgewood Park and the Bay Checkerspot Butterfly in our Drive by Extinction - KQED QUEST Flickr photo set.
Andrea Kissack is Senior Editor for QUEST at KQED Public Radio.