Brimming with oceanic tones, the creature’s wings are considered by collectors to be some of the most magnificent in North America.
His story reminds us that we can all contribute to conservation efforts — sometimes even from our own backyards.
As an aquatic biologist at the California Academy of Sciences, Tim Wong rarely has a dull day.
"We raised painted lady butterflies in the classroom, and I was amazed at the complete metamorphosis from caterpillar to adult.".
In an open meadow near his home, Wong spent his days catching, studying, and raising any butterflies he could find.
"Finally, I was able to find this plant in the San Francisco Botanical Garden [in Golden Gate Park]," Wong says.
Though the California pipevine butterfly had nearly disappeared in San Francisco, it was still common outside the city, in places with more vegetation. »