In 1989, the unusually low snowpack in portions of the Sierra Nevada Mountains led to a widespread emergence of Edith's checkerspot butterflies in April. In these regions, flowers do not appear until May. What was the most likely result of the early emergence of these butterflies?

The questions have been asked in several important state and regional science exams in the United States. For example: TAKS-Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills, New York State Educational Department Regents exams, California Standards Test, etc.