It's Karner Time!

OK- Butterfly fans! Here is the news you have been waiting for: Jackie Riley from Kitty Todd Nature Preserve (Oak Openings) reports - "It's Karner time!"



....................................................................Photo J. Riley

Those tiny blue fliers-which are Federally listed as ENDANGERED have just hatched out at Kitty Todd. We have had many posting on these in the past- bring up a few of the old posts if you are interested in learning more. That is a Karner's Blue butterfly I photographed at Kitty Todd, perched on the title header of this page.

..................................................... ........photo J. Riley

And if you are into rare butterflies- the Dusted Skippers have been flying too. This is a little harder sell, I know. But it is a real rarity and a "must see" for the butterfly folks!

.................................................. ....................................Photo J. Riley

And last but not least- drive carefully out there! Jackie found this very rare Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata) crossing a road near the Oak Openings. We have reported the little fellow to the proper agency, as these populations are monitored throughout Ohio. The spotted turtle is not currently listed in the US Federal Endangered Species Act; however, it is listed as endangered in 22 states.

So, planning a trip to the Oak Openings? Late June to early July is one of the best times of year, and be sure to stop by Kitty Todd and tell my friend Jackie, "Hi!"

Blue Weekend

Warblers are good- but State Listed, Federally Endangered butterflies- are way cooler!!!
Behold: the Karner Blue butterfly.


When you come up to Magee, nearby Kitty Todd is the place for the "Butterfly of butterflies!"

Schedule your trip to Kitty Todd on May 15 or 16 for Blue Weekend, for the annual celebration of all things blue in the oak savanna, including the Karner blue butterfly, wild blue lupine and the blue spotted salamander. Hikes, presentations, photo exhibits and more are all part of this family-friendly weekend at Kitty Todd Preserve and surrounding protected areas in Northwest Ohio.

View the schedule

No promises on the Karners, but the amesome Frosted Elfins should still be out. And for you leps who bird watch in the off season, lark sparrows are sure to be seen. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me: harner1@bright.net and I will get you to the right people!