Extirpated
Guides
Callophrys irus arsace
Callophrys irus arsace is a historically reported subspecies of the frosted elfin butterfly, originally described from coastal regions of the southeastern United States (Carolinas and Virginia). Genetic analysis of preserved specimens found no evidence that this subspecies is genetically distinct from the nominate subspecies C. i. irus. Field surveys conducted in 2019 and 2021 failed to locate any extant populations within its historical range. The subspecies has not been observed in over two decades and may be extirpated.
Coenonympha tullia california
California Ringlet
Coenonympha tullia california is a subspecies of the Common Ringlet butterfly, historically found in low-elevation areas of central and northern California. According to long-term monitoring by UC Davis professor Art Shapiro, this subspecies was regionally extirpated from the Sacramento Valley and surrounding lowlands by 2007, becoming one of several butterfly species to disappear from Shapiro's study transect between Chico and Stockton. The decline is attributed to climate change disrupting diapause cues and pesticide exposure, particularly neonicotinoids. The subspecies exemplifies broader patterns of butterfly population collapse documented across North America.
Cucullia speyeri
Speyer's paint, Speyer's cucullia, Speyer's hooded owlet moth
Cucullia speyeri is a noctuid moth species found in North America, ranging from the Canadian prairies to the Atlantic coast. The species inhabits open, dry grassland and meadow habitats. Adults are active in late spring and summer, with a wingspan of approximately 48 mm. The larvae feed on herbaceous Asteraceae and Conyza species. In Connecticut, the species is listed as a species of special concern and is believed to be extirpated.
Papaipema circumlucens
hops-stalk borer moth, hop-gall borer moth
Papaipema circumlucens is a North American moth in the family Noctuidae, described by Smith in 1899. The species is known by two common names: hops-stalk borer moth and hop-gall borer moth. It is listed as a species of special concern and has been documented from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, Ohio, Saskatchewan, and Wisconsin. It is believed to be extirpated from Connecticut.