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Miami blue butterfly gains permanent protection

A species that was brought back from the edge of extinction just a few years ago has now gained permanent protection.  The Miami blue butterfly’s endangered designation was set to expire at the end of last week, but the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided to formally list the species as endangered.  Florida Museum of Natural History Lepidoptera Assistant Curator Jaret Daniels says all the resources which come with the listing are too vital for the small population to lose.

DANIELS3

in depth: 

http://www.wuft.org/media/audio/FPBUTTERFLYQA.mp3

He says the butterfly has a special importance not just to the ecosystem, but to Florida's history, because it is found exclusively in the state. The University of Florida has surveyed the population in past years and will now work with other agencies to stabilize the population moving forward.

Katiana is a reporter who can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.
Stephanie is a reporter for WUFT News who may be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news @wuft.org