Populations of bay checkerspot butterflies that occupy large patches of suitable habitat serve as sink populations for individuals that recolonize small patches of suitable habitat where butterfly populations frequently become extinct.

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Populations of bay checkerspot butterflies that occupy large patches of suitable habitat serve as source populations, not sink populations, for individuals that recolonize small patches of suitable habitat. Source populations are healthy, stable populations that can provide individuals to colonize other areas, whereas sink populations rely on immigrants from other areas to maintain their numbers.

Populations of Bay Checkerspot Butterflies That Occupy Large Patches of Suitable