Endangered butterfly population doubles at Fern Ridge
This species of butterfly, found only in the Willamette Valley, was believed to be extinct from 1937 until it was rediscovered in 1989. The species was listed as endangered in 2000. The known population of Fender`s blue butterflies has increased dramatically since their rediscovery. Corps biologists credit a combination of factors for the recovery, including restoration of prairie habitat by planting the butterfly`s larval host, the federally protected Kincaid`s lupine; control of invasive species; discovery of new populations; and improved monitoring methods.

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Photo by: Wes Messinger |  VIRIN: 090518-A-JM613-004.JPG