Endangered Butterflies: Conservation Challenges and Success Stories

The Large Blue was extinct in Britain by 1979 but was reintroduced using Swedish stock after scientists discovered their caterpillars need specific red ant species. The Queen Alexandra Birdwing is endangered by palm oil plantations in Papua New Guinea. The Miami Blue was reduced to 35 individuals before captive breeding saved it.

The Karner Blue needs wild lupine, which requires fire-maintained habitat. The biggest threats: habitat loss, pesticide use, climate change, and invasive species..