Golden Gate National Recreation Area
San Bruno Elfin Butterfly
Callophrys mossii bayensis
Photo © San Bruno Mountain Watch
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San Bruno Elfin Butterfly
Callophrys mossii bayensis
The San Bruno Elfin Butterfly was protected by the Endangered Species Act on June 1, 1976. Only an inch-wide, the species was overlooked by lepidopterists until 1968 when it was finally described. It is endemic to foggy cliff edges and rocky outcrops on steep, north-facing slopes. The butterfly’s host plant is stonecrop (Sedum spathulifolium), a species endemic to coastal scrub communities.
Adults emerge from pupae from late February to mid-April, with a peak in late March. The females lay eggs on stonecrop leaves, and 3-7 days later red or yellow larvae that blend-in with the reddish bracts and yellow flowers of the host plant hatch and begin to feed. When the plant begins to bloom, the larvae creep up the stalks and dine on flower heads; around this time, they also secrete a sweet liquid known as honeydew that attracts ants. Scientists believe that the ants help protect the larvae from predators and parasites.
In June, the larvae have matured and they descend to the ground and pupate in leaf litter. They lie dormant until the following February or March. At the end of this stage, new adults emerge, starting the cycle of life over again.
The major remaining population of this species exists on its namesake, San Bruno Mountain. However, you can still find the species in the GGNRA: an additional population clings to existence on Milagra Ridge, in San Mateo County.
Conservation Action Item
The San Bruno Elfin Butterfly persists despite a variety of threats that impact the species' limited habitats. Improving existing habitats and restoring others will be key to the species' long-term survival. Volunteer to restore San Bruno Elfin Butterfly habitats at Milagra Ridge &/or on San Bruno Mountain.
Links:
Trips
- Sunday, March 16, 2008, 10:00 a.m. : Join Liam O'Brien at the San Bruno Mountain Summit Parking Lot to see the San Bruno Elfin Butterfly. RSVP required: call 415-572-6989. NOTE: this trip is not eligible for the Big Year competition, but will be your best chance to see the San Bruno Elfin.
- Wednesday, April 2, 2008, 10:00 a.m. : Join Liam O'Brien at the San Bruno Mountain Summit Parking Lot to see the San Bruno Elfin Butterfly. RSVP required: call 415-572-6989. NOTE: this trip is not eligible for the Big Year competition, but will be your best chance to see the San Bruno Elfin.
- Sunday, April 6, 2008, 10:00 a.m. : Join Liam O'Brien at the San Bruno Mountain Summit Parking Lot to see the San Bruno Elfin Butterfly. RSVP required: call 415-572-6989. NOTE: this trip is not eligible for the Big Year competition, but will be your best chance to see the San Bruno Elfin.
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