Type: report

Article abstract: Quino checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas editha quino) was listed as an endangered species on January 16, 1997 (63 Federal Register 2313–2322). Since that time, a captive propagation program has been established to guard against extinction of the species in the wild and to provide stock for release within the species former range. Although this program has successfully produced new generations of butterflies, the program as a whole lacks a longterm plan and decision making framework to evaluate which individuals should be released at which locations to maximize the probably of survival of the species at release sites. Genetic diversity is a serious concern for populations of butterflies kept in captivity (Crone et al. 2007; Snyder et al. 1996) and therefore operating procedures and record keeping are necessary to minimize selection and drift in captivity. This document assesses the current status of the captive rearing program and provides a framework to guide future actions involving reintroduction, augmentation and captive propagation of this taxon. Any captive propagation protocol and release plan for Quino checkerspot butterfly must ensure that the captive propagation program is consistent with the USFWS Policy Regarding Controlled Propagation of Species Listed Under the ESA (65 Federal Register 56916). This plan addresses the 14 criteria in the captive propagation policy and includes:identification of measurable objectives and milestones for the program, a clear endpoint for the program, general operating procedures for rearing and release, guidance for data collection and management, a decision making structure to guide reintroduction strategies, and a post-release monitoring strategy.