Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 1 week ago
Do you know where to find the curiously isolated hairstreak? 🦋
In Waterton Lakes National Park there is an area called the Blakiston Fan—the only place in the world where this tiny butterfly is found.
Working with Parks Canada, we’re monitoring the population and exploring conservation actions. One major threat? Spotted knapweed, an invasive plant that competes with the native vegetation this butterfly depends on for food.
The curiously isolated hairstreak also has a fascinating mutualistic relationship with a single ant species (Lasius ponderosae). The larvae secrete a sugary substance to feed the ants, and in return, the ants protect the larvae from predators.
By protecting this unique habitat, we can help secure a brighter future for this rare butterfly. 💚
Want to learn more about the work we are doing? Visit @wilderinstitute
#YourZooYYC #WilderTogether
Do you know where to find the curiously isolated hairstreak? 🦋
In Waterton Lakes National Park there is an area called the Blakiston Fan—the only place in the world where this tiny butterfly is found.
Working with Parks Canada, we’re monitoring the population and exploring conservation actions. One major threat? Spotted knapweed, an invasive plant that competes with the native vegetation this butterfly depends on for food.
The curiously isolated hairstreak also has a fascinating mutualistic relationship with a single ant species (Lasius ponderosae). The larvae secrete a sugary substance to feed the ants, and in return, the ants protect the larvae from predators.
By protecting this unique habitat, we can help secure a brighter future for this rare butterfly. 💚
Want to learn more about the work we are doing? Visit @wilderinstitute
#YourZooYYC #WilderTogether
