March 27, 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 
CONTACT: Kathalyn Gaither, (850) 245-2112

APRIL IS "FLORIDA BUTTERFLY & BUTTERFLY GARDENING MONTH"
 -- Rare Miami Blue Butterfly eggs harvested just in time --

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
(See more news releases at this link)
http://www.dep.state.fl.us

When April 2003 arrives, the first eggs harvested from one of the world's rarest butterflies, the Miami Blue, will have hatched just in time for "Florida Butterfly and Butterfly Gardening Month." Proclaimed by Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Cabinet, in part to bring recognition to the rare insect, April acknowledges the importance of butterflies as indicators of environmental health. "We are fortunate that the Miami Blue was discovered in Bahia Honda State Park, where their protection can be ensured," said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs. "This may be the last remaining colony of these rare creatures." On discovery of the Miami Blue colony in 1999, scientists and butterfly enthusiasts petitioned for its placement on the federal Endangered Species List. 
With fewer than 50 Miami Blue remaining, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued a state emergency order in December 2002 while it considers permanent listing status. In effect for 240 days, the emergency order makes it a felony to harm the butterfly. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection, North American Butterfly Association, Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, Florida Master Gardeners, Tropical Audubon Society, Florida Native Plant Society, the Miami Blue Butterfly Blue Crew, the Florida Wildflower Council, and individuals showed their support for protecting the Miami Blue.

About 150 butterfly species are found throughout Florida. The growth cycle of the butterfly -- from egg, to caterpillar, chrysalis, and butterfly -- takes between two and three weeks. The average life-span is approximately one month. The smallest, however, may live only a week, while some, such as the Monarch, can live up to nine months Florida's official state butterfly is the Zebra Longwing. It is easily identified by its long black wings striped with yellow, and can be found year-round throughout the state.