Endangered Butterflies To Be Released Along California Coast After Given $1.5 Million Private Grant

Fish & Wildlife Service

In California, a concerted effort is underway to facilitate the resurgence of Behren’s Silverspot butterfly along the Northern California coastline through a comprehensive four-year plan.

Fueled by a substantial $1.5 million grant from the State of California Wildlife Conservation Board, the Mendocino Land Trust (MLT) spearheads the initiative. The primary objective entails the cultivation and planting of 35,000 early blue violets, the sole sustenance for the caterpillars of these vibrant orange butterflies.

Additionally, a blend of indigenous flora will be introduced to support the ecosystem.

The proliferation of invasive grasses has significantly encroached upon the habitat of these small purple flowering plants across Northern California’s Mendocino coastline, spanning from Salt Point Park in Sonoma County to the Mendocino Headlands and Anna Bride.

Through the restoration efforts, approximately 53 acres of land will be reclaimed, fostering the revival of native wildflowers.


Furthermore bolstering the endeavor, a substantial number of caterpillars, bred in captivity by Speyeria Conservation and Research, are poised for release into the rejuvenated habitat come spring. Speyeria, elucidates that Behren’s Silverspot caterpillars undergo a state known as ‘diapause’ during winter, akin to hibernation for insects, wherein they remain dormant without exhibiting growth or appetite.

A recent Facebook post by the organization revealed that 1,412 caterpillars currently remain in diapause in captivity, signaling an active and promising spring ahead.

The collaborative initiative enlists the support of various entities including California State Parks, the Bureau of Land Management, the Laguna Foundation, the Sequoia Park Zoo, and Wynn Coastal Planning & Biology. Over the course of four years, the coalition aims to release 600 specimens into the restored habitat.


MLT wrote in a statement, “MLT’s winning this grant is a victory for the butterfly and a testimony to the dedication of all of these organizations.”

The timing of this endeavor is particularly critical, as scientists associated with the project underscore the alarming scarcity of Behren’s Silverspot butterfly sightings. Over the past 15 years, a mere 92 sightings have been documented, highlighting the urgent need for intervention.

Established in 1947, the Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) plays a pivotal role in facilitating conservation efforts in California. With a multifaceted approach, WCB focuses on land acquisition, habitat restoration, and the development of wildlife-oriented public access facilities.

Through 17 diverse programs, ranging from butterfly rescue initiatives to the preservation of forest and desert ecosystems, WCB endeavors to safeguard the state’s diverse wildlife heritage.

 

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