[Pollinator] Over 30 scientists ask the USFWS to support Laguna Mountains skipper conservation

[Sarina Jepsen]

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OVER 30 SCIENTISTS ASK THE U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE TO SUPPORT THE
CONSERVATION OF AN ENDANGERED BUTTERFLY

The Laguna Mountain skipper (*Pyrgus ruralis lagunae)* is one of the most
highly endangered butterflies in North America. It was designated as a
federal Endangered Species in January of 1997.  More than a decade later,
the butterfly continues to decline.  Recent surveys have determined that the
Laguna Mountain skipper is extirpated from the Laguna Mountains (it
namesake) and there are now only 5 meadows on the neighboring Palomar
Mountain that support populations of this species.

Without continued conservation, this butterfly is faced with imminent
extinction due to risks associated with global climate change, such as
increased wildfire and the drying out of its wet meadow habitat. Ecologists
and lepidopterists from across the US have signed on to a letter asking the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to begin captive propagation immediately,
work to prepare sites for reintroduction, and continue to monitor the
existing populations.

These actions are vital to ensure the long term survival of this butterfly.

Read the letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service<http://www.xerces.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/letter_in_support_of_laguna_mountains_skipper1.pdf>>>
Read more about the Laguna Mountains
skipper<http://www.xerces.org/laguna-mountains-skipper/>>>
Browse the Xerces Society butterfly conservation
program<http://www.xerces.org/butterfly-conservation/>>>

ABOUT THE XERCES SOCIETY
The Xerces Society is an international, nonprofit organization that protects
wildlife through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitat. For
over three decades, the Society has been at the forefront of invertebrate
conservation, harnessing the knowledge of scientists and the enthusiasm of
citizens to implement conservation programs.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact Scott Hoffman Black <sblack at xerces.org>, Executive Director, The
Xerces Society, 503-449-3792.

PHOTO
Laguna Mountains skipper (*Pyrgus ruralis lagunae*) by Tyler Grant, USFWS.

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