Why Is The Mitchells Satyr Butterfly Endangered?
Habitat Loss and Degradation – The greatest threat to the Mitchell’s satyr is habitat destruction. Most of the wetland habitat that this butterfly depends on for survival has been drained and filled to make way for urban and agricultural development. Also, invasion from exotic weeds threaten the fens on which the butterflies depend. Pesticides and other Pollutants – Contamination of fen wetlands by pesticides, fertilizer, and nutrient runoff from adjacent agriculture, including livestock production, poses a threat to the butterfly’s habitat. Butterfly Collectors – It is believed that some populations of the Mitchell’s satyr were eliminated by butterfly collectors. Because butterfly numbers are so low, the collection of even a few individuals could harm the butterfly population. Collection is illegal without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
