First collected in the Mission District of San Francisco in 1937, the Mission Blue Butterfly (Icaricia icarioides missionensis or Plebejus icarioides missionensis) is a small, blue butterfly that is native only to California. It can still be found in the San Francisco Bay Area today, including the Marin Headlands. In these areas, three species of the delicate Lupine plant support the little butterfly from eggs to caterpillar and are necessary for its survival.
The Mission Blue is quite unusual in that it has a most ethereal spectrum of clear blues on its wings. According to Wikipedia, “The males’ top wing grades from ice blue in the center to deep sky blue… the wing color carries no hint of green or purple, strictly capturing an enthralling spectrum of purest, clearest, richest, brightest blue.”
Unfortunately, residential and industrial development continually threaten the Mission Blue Butterfly habitat. Much of the area that it once inhabited has been destroyed. As a result, the Mission Blue is in serious danger of becoming extinct and is on the Federal Endangered Species List.
Being that it is quite unique, beautiful, and native to where we call home, MBC is honored to have the little blue butterfly as our mascot. Like so many things in nature, the Mission Blue reminds us take the time to appreciate and protect these rare miracles in our world before they disappear forever.
For more information on the conservation and habitat restoration for the Mission Blue, please visit the Golden Gate National Parks Service site.
