Silverspot butterflies are now protected under the Endangered Species Act

The Endangered Species Act has recently extended its protection to a butterfly occasionally found in Colorado. While the butterfly is not currently at risk of extinction, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has taken this step to ensure its long-term survival.

The silverspot butterfly, also known as the insect, can be found in southwestern Colorado, as well as two other western states, namely Utah and New Mexico.

The butterfly is quite sizable, boasting a wingspan of up to 3 inches. One of its notable features is the presence of unique silvery-white spots on the undersides of its wings.

The government aims to protect some of the habitats of this butterfly by classifying it as endangered.

The USFWS highlighted the various threats faced by the silverspot butterfly. These include the potential impact of climate change, coupled with habitat loss and fragmentation. Additionally, incompatible livestock grazing, human alteration of natural hydrology, and genetic isolation pose significant risks to the species. The USFWS emphasized the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure the survival and conservation of the silverspot butterfly.

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