The Mitchell's satyr is an endangered species.  Endangered species are animals and plants that are in danger of becoming extinct.  Threatened species are animals and plants that are likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future.  Identifying, protecting, and restoring endangered and threatened species is the primary objective of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's endangered species program.

What is the Mitchell's Satyr Butterfly?

Scientific Name - Neonympha mitchellii mitchellii

Appearance - This butterfly is medium sized (1 3/4inch wingspan) butterfly with an overall rich brown color. A distinctive series of orange-ringed black circular eyespots with silvery centers are located on the lower surfaces of both pairs of wings.

Range - The Mitchell's satyr butterfly is one of the most geographically restricted eastern butterflies.  Historically, the Mitchell's satyr was found in New Jersey, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, and possibly Maryland. Today, the butterfly can be found in only 13 locations in Michigan and 2 locations in Indiana.

Habitat - The Mitchell's satyr is restricted to rare wetlands called fens which are low nutrient systems that receive carbonate-rich ground water from seeps and springs.

Reproduction - Little is known about the Mitchell's satyr's three life stages. The eggs are probably laid on the young leaves of low, tender plants. Eggs hatch into caterpillars (larvae) in about a week. The caterpillar grows throughout the year, shedding its skin many times. The fourth stage caterpillar hibernates under the snow to later emerge in the spring and resume its development. The caterpillar finally makes a cocoon and then emerges as an adult butterfly. The adults live only two weeks.

Feeding Habits - Caterpillars feed on one or more species of grass-like plants called sedges. Adults may never eat or drink.

Why Is The Mitchell's 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.

What Is Being Done to Prevent Extinction Of The Mitchell's Satyr Butterfly?

Listing - The Mitchell's satyr was added to the U.S. List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants on June 25, 1991. It is illegal to harm, harass, collect, or kill the butterfly without a permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Recovery Plan - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has created a recovery plan that describes actions needed to help the butterfly survive, and enable it to be taken off the Endangered Species List.

Research - Researchers are studying the Mitchell's satyr to find the best way to manage for the butterfly and its habitat.

Habitat Protection - On State, County, and private lands, the butterfly's habitat is being managed and protected. Many other kinds of plants and animals will also benefit from protection of the butterfly's habitat.

Public Education - Public education programs are being developed to raise awareness of the butterfly's plight.

What Can I Do to Help Prevent the Extinction of Species?

Learn - Learn more about the Mitchell's satyr and other endangered and threatened species. Understand how the destruction of habitat leads to loss of endangered and threatened species and our nation's plant and animal diversity. Tell others about what you have learned.

Write - Write to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service or your state fish and game agency to learn more about endangered and threatened species.

Join - Join a conservation group; many have local chapters.

Protect - Ensure your actions protect endangered species and their habitat, in the places you visit and live.

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