Resources
Dive into the science through recent publications from the Partnership and learn more through commonly asked questions.
Research Publications
- Runquist, E., C. Nordmeyer, & S. Stapleton. 2024. Widespread annual occurrence of pesticides within designated critical habitats for endangered prairie butterflies. Journal of Insect Conservation. 28. 1-14.
- Belitz, M. W. et al. 2018. Aggregated occurrence records of the federally endangered Poweshiek skipperling (Oarisma poweshiek). Biodiversity Data Journal.
- Belitz, M.W. et al. 2020. Landscape-level environmental stressors contributing to the decline of Poweshiek skipperling (Oarisma poweshiek). Insect Conserv Divers, 13: 187-200.
- Knight, S. M. et al. 2024. Management practices benefit endangered Poweshiek skipperling (Oarisma poweshiek) in Manitoba tall grass prairie. FACETS. 9(): 1-12.
- Dupont-Morozoff, J. , R. Westwood, and J. Henault. 2022. An Assessment of Prairie Management Practices for Maintaining Habitat Quality for the Endangered Poweshiek Skipperling Butterfly in Canada. The American Midland Naturalist 188(1), 74-101.
- Westwood, R. et al. 2019. A field‐validated species distribution model to support management of the critically endangered Poweshiek skipperling (Oarisma poweshiek) butterfly in Canada. Conservation Science and Practice.
- Dearborn, K., & R. Westwood. 2014. Predicting adult emergence of Dakota skipper and Poweshiek skipperling (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) in Canada. J Insect Conserv 18, 875–884.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I see a Poweshiek skipperling in the wild?
Due to their status as being Critically Endangered and the sensitivity of the habitats they inhabit, we cannot disclose the exact location of where the Poweshiek skipperlings reside. However, we do encourage you to spend time outdoors wherever you are observing and learning more about your wildlife neighbors.
How did the Poweshiek skipperling come to be endangered in the wild?
The Poweshiek skipperling was once a common butterfly across much of North America’s prairie. However, only 1% of that prairie habitat remains. The primary threat to Poweshiek skipperlings is habitat loss and fragmentation. Other threats such as pesticides and invasive plants likely contribute today to the range-wide decline of the species.
Are current efforts to save the Poweshiek skipperling from extinction working?
The combined efforts of organizations and individuals in North America have saved the Poweshiek skipperling from extinction. However, as one of the most endangered animals on the planet, the species remains in a precarious state and continued conservation action is needed to bring them back from the brink.
How can I help the Poweshiek skipperling and other beneficial insects?
There are many things you can do to make a difference and lend a hand. Choosing native plants in your garden or yard provides critical habitat and resources for many pollinators and other wildlife. Chemical pesticides are a cause of pollinator decline and can hurt many other species of plants and animals and should be avoided when possible. You can also stay up to date on issues impacting wildlife and the needs of threatened species in your area. Lastly, lending time or money to organizations working on the conservation of endangered species is another way to impact these timely issues.
What should I do if I think I’ve seen a Poweshiek skipperling in the wild?
If you may have seen a Poweshiek skipperling in the wild, please send any information including photos to info@savingskippers.org. You may also want to post your possible sighting to iNaturalist to connect with others in the community who may be able to help with identification.
Where can I learn more about the Poweshiek skipperling’s biology, history, and current efforts to save it?
To learn even more about the Poweshiek skipperling, visit the interactive Plight of the Poweshiek storymap.