Declining trend in swamp grouse butterfly populations in New York

Environmental designations such as Area of ​​Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) help protect areas where it can be found.

The butterfly feeds almost exclusively on the leaves of a plant called devil’s scabiosis, which has also suffered from habitat loss and changes in agricultural practices.

In September, thirteen volunteers and two Butterfly Conservation staff conducted surveys at 20 sites, with the number reported more than doubling.

The short dry and mild weather in June is thought to have played a role in the butterfly’s tide, as well as management of the area.