Isabelle Heron ’23
Visual Host Plant Surveys Correlate with Abundance of a Rare Butterfly
Isabelle Heron ’23, Environmental Biology major, Finance and Business and Innovation minor
Faculty Mentor: Dr. Rachael Bonoan, Biology
The frosted elfin (Callophrys irus) is a state-listed species of concern in 11 states. As a host plant specialist, we know frosted elfins only lay their eggs and develop on two plant species, wild indigo (Baptisia australis) and wild lupine (Lupinus perennis). Other than basic habitat preferences, however, we know little about its natural history/ecology. I used satellite imaging and on-the-ground surveys to locate frosted elfin populations and verify quantitative host plant categories, which will allow for quicker assessment of habitat and thus, field sites for future studies. From the 15+ possible frosted elfin sites identified with satellite imaging, we chose a site with abundant wild indigo and historical data on frosted elfin abundance, Gavins Pond (Foxborough, MA). There, I surveyed host plants quantitatively (plants/m2) and qualitatively (visual surveys). As expected, qualitative density of wild indigo significantly correlated with plant density. Also, butterflies were more likely to be found in abundant/common host plant patches. The survey method developed at Gavins Pond confirms frosted elfin habitat preferences. What we learn more about this rare butterfly will inform conservation in the face of the “insect apocalypse” that the frosted elfins and many other species are facing.
Poster Presentation: Thursday, April 27, 2 – 4 p.m.
