These butterflies with unusual patterns used to be quite common. However, their habitats and human impacts have led to their gradual disappearance.
Miami Blue: In the past, this species was relatively common along the coast of Florida, USA. However, today, its population has significantly decreased (estimated to be fewer than 100 individuals). This is considered the rarest butterfly in the world. The main reasons for the Miami Blue’s disappearance are the development of the Miami coastal area and Hurricane Andrew in 1992. By 1999, no Miami Blue butterflies were observed, and it was believed to be extinct. (Image: Florida Museum).
Island Marble: This butterfly has wing patterns that resemble marble. For about 100 years (1908-1998), it was thought to be extinct. However, some Island Marble butterflies have reappeared on San Juan Island (Spain). Scientists and authorities have listed it as an endangered species. Nevertheless, their efforts have not prevented the population of this species from continuing to decline. As of 2018, the number of Island Marble butterflies was estimated to be below 200 on San Juan Island. (Image: Flickr).
Palos Verdes Blue: This is a small butterfly with a high risk of extinction. The Palos Verdes Blue only appears on the Palos Verdes Peninsula (USA), making it rare for people to see it in person. Scientists believed this species had completely disappeared by 1983 when its habitat (located in Rancho Palos Verdes Park) was flattened. Currently, only about 200 Palos Verdes Blue butterflies remain in the wild. (Image: Joel Sarton).
Lange’s Metalmark: Similar to the Palos Verdes Blue, Lange’s Metalmark lives exclusively in one environment, specifically the Antioch sand dunes (California, USA). It was officially classified as endangered in 1976. (Image: Sfgate).
Saint Francis Satyr: This butterfly is only found in Fort Bragg, North Carolina (USA). It is estimated that there are currently fewer than 1,000 Saint Francis Satyr butterflies. The primary reason for the decline of this butterfly is habitat loss. (Image: Fws).
Schaus Swallowtail: At one point, the Schaus Swallowtail was considered the rarest butterfly in Florida (USA), with only a few hundred individuals remaining. However, conservation efforts have increased their population to about 800-1,200 individuals today. They are easily recognizable by their upper wings, which are brownish-black with white and yellow bands in the middle. Their wingspan ranges from approximately 9.2 to 11.8 cm. (Image: Observer).
Leona’s Little Blue: Its name is derived from Leona Rice, who first discovered this species in Klamath, Oregon (USA). The estimated current population of Leona’s Little Blues is around 1,000 to 2,000 individuals. They primarily live on buckwheat plants. However, their habitat is increasingly threatened by logging and invasive plant species. (Image: Flickr).
