|
Page 1 of 2
 Butterfly Back From The Brink Of Extinction
Science Daily — Once relegated to a few small and fragile reserves, the nearly extinct butterfly with electric blue wings has expanded its territory to take up residence along the bluffs of a popular beach south of the Los Angeles International Airport, says University of Southern California research assistant professor Travis Longcore.
A few hundred are now living and breeding in the four-acre area where tourists, surfers and beachcombers can get a close look at the rare species. “In the national picture, this project is yet more evidence that the Endangered Species Act works, and that species recovery is not only possible, but sometimes even involves a walk on the beach,” said Longcore, who also is the science director for the Urban Wildlands Group. Until last month, the species only existed in three special reserves away from the crowds. “This is an important step in breaking down the barriers between people and nature in the city,” Longcore said.
|
