Elusive Butterfly found!

You never know what might happen during our butterfly surveys... A butterfly from Victoria, the Eltham Copper, feared to be extinct has been found again. We need good news knowing that our environment is under much pressure, especially in fast growing Brisbane. 

You never know what might happen during our butterfly surveys... A butterfly from Victoria, the Eltham Copper, feared to be extinct has been found again. Stories like this give us hope. 

The Eltham Copper was last recorded in the late 1950s and then not seen again until 1987 when discovered on a property earmarked for subdivision. This triggered a comprehensive survey for the butterfly, and by 1988 nine colonies had been found in Victoria, three of which have again been lost due to developments, but as the search continued others have been found. 

The butterflies are delicate, don't have a long life span, only fly over a short time during the season and only under favourable conditions. Efforts are now under way to support the butterfly so that no further extinction threats will be noted in the future. Why not read the story  on ABC's website.

Photo: ABC News - Elaine Bayes and Damien Cook