Karner Blue Butterfly

Researchers

Mitchell Magdich

KBB research/management work:

Captive breeding and reintroduction of Karner blue butterfly to Ohio
Beginning in 1992, developed protocols and methodology for captive breeding and reintroducing the KBB to Ohio. Initial reintroduction occurred in 1998 using founders from Michigan. Releases took place at the main unit of Kitty Todd Preserve (TNC) in Lucas County Ohio from 1998 through 2003. A population appears to be established and is reproducing at this site. Subsequent releases have taken place at other locations in NW Ohio since 2003, including another site at the Kitty Todd Preserve (~ 2 miles from initial release site) and in restored and protected habitat managed by the Toledo (Ohio) Metropolitan Park District.

Significant Findings

Butterflies have dispersed from the initial release site and are now found throughout the main unit at Kitty Todd Preserve wherever lupine occurs.

Work Area:

Ohio

Contact Information:

The Toledo Zoo
P.O. Box 140130
Toledo, Ohio 43614

mitch.edu@toledozoo.org
419.385.5721 x.2048

Papers/Reports:

Annual reports pertaining to the captive breeding program are available by contacting the Toledo Zoo or through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) c/o Carolyn Caldwell

The Ohio Recovery Plan for the Karner blue is available by contacting the ODNR, c/o Carolyn Caldwell

Propagation Handbook for the Karner Blue Butterfly (PDF)

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Last updated: January 3, 2013