Species Information
Mission Blue Butterfly
| Status |
Endangered Species  Endangered Species: species that have a very small population and are at risk of extinction in the wild. |
| Listed | June 1, 1976 |
| Family |
Lycaenidae (Gossamer-winged butterfly) |
| Description | Small butterfly; male is sliver-blue to violet-blue, female is completely brown |
| Habitat | Grasslands and coastal scrub |
| Host Plant | Lupine |
| Reproduction | A single egg is deposited on the host plant |
| Threats |
Decreasing habitat caused by development and a decrease in food sources resulting from the introduction of non-native species |
| Range | California |
| Status |
Endangered Species: species that have a very small population and are at risk of extinction in the wild. |
| Listed | June 1, 1976 |
| Family |
Lycaenidae (Gossamer-winged butterfly) |
| Description | Small butterfly; male is sliver-blue to violet-blue, female is completely brown |
| Habitat | Grasslands and coastal scrub |
| Host Plant | Lupine |
| Reproduction | A single egg is deposited on the host plant |
| Threats |
Decreasing habitat caused by development and a decrease in food sources resulting from the introduction of non-native species |
| Range | California |
The Mission Blue Butterfly (Icaricia icarioides missionensis) is a gossamer-winged species of butterfly native to the San Francisco Bay Area. They have been listed as an endangered species by the US Fish and Wildlife Service since 1976.
The butterfly is a small, bright blue butterfly with a wingspan of about 1.5 inches. The upper wings and body are a bright, iridescent blue color, while the underside of the wings are grayish-white with some black spots. The caterpillars feed on various species of the lupine plant.
The main threat to the mission blue is habitat loss due to urbanization and development. Other threats include the use of pesticides, competition from non-native species, drought, and fire. To help conserve the species, the US Fish and Wildlife Service has created a conservation plan that includes protecting remaining habitat, restoring and creating new habitat, and reintroducing the species to areas where it has been extirpated.
The Mission Blue Butterfly is an important part of the local ecosystem and an example of the fragile nature of our natural environment. They are a reminder that we must take care to protect and conserve our local species and habitats before they are gone forever. The long-term outlook for the mission blue is guardingly optimistic.