Rare and endangered butterflies of Baja California

This project will focus on searching for four rare and endangered butterfly species in the San Quintín–Colonet region: Quino Checkerspot (Euphydryas editha quino), Hermes Copper (Lycaena hermes), Thorne’s Hairstreak (Callophrys gryneus), and Sonoran Blue (Philotes sonorensis). In addition, the quality of the host plants identified for these species in the area will be evaluated.

Since 2023, studies have been conducted on the presence of some of these butterflies in areas of Tijuana, Tecate, and Ensenada, with some important findings. This project seeks to determine whether these species also inhabit further south and to compare their populations with those in the north of the state, observing possible differences in distribution and ecology.

It will also be essential to observe the interactions between the butterflies and their host plants, as symbiotic relationships, as well as phenological and edaphic factors, are not yet fully understood.

Considering that a neutral ENSO rainfall cycle and moderately dry conditions are expected, the study will reveal whether these populations can persist in arid environments, which is crucial for their long-term conservation.