zoom_in Click to enlarge

Mission Blue

▲ ▼

description Mission Blue Overview

The Mission Blue (Icaricia icarioides missionensis) is an endangered butterfly subspecies native to the San Francisco Bay Area, discovered in 1937. The butterfly has a wingspan of approximately 1 to 1.4 inches and features blue-violet upper wing surfaces in males and brownish-blue in females. Mission Blue caterpillars depend exclusively on three species of lupine plants (Lupinus albifrons, L. formosus, and L.

variicolor) for food and habitat. Conservation efforts have included habitat restoration in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and a captive breeding program. The butterfly was among the first 27 species protected under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 1976.

help Mission Blue FAQ

Where can the Mission Blue butterfly be found?

The Mission Blue, Icaricia icarioides missionensis, is native to parts of the San Francisco Bay Area. Its restricted range makes the local habitat especially important for its survival.

When was the Mission Blue discovered?

The Mission Blue was described in 1937. It is a named subspecies of Icaricia icarioides rather than a separate butterfly genus.

What does a male Mission Blue look like?

Males have blue-violet upper wing surfaces, while females are generally browner. The wingspan is approximately 1 to 1.4 inches.

Why is the Mission Blue endangered?

Its limited Bay Area range makes it vulnerable to habitat loss and changes in the plant communities it depends on. Conservation work focuses on protecting and restoring suitable native habitat.

swap_horiz

Looking for Mission Blue alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward