Saint Francis' Satyr - Habitat

Habitat

St. Francis’ satyr is found in wetland habitat dominated by graminoids and sedges. Most subpopulations are found in abandoned beaver dams or along streams with active beaver complexes. Suitable habitat is highly susceptible to variation in rainfall and subpopulations can be reduced with too much or too little water flow. St. Francis’ satyr cannot survive in sites that are either inundated by flooding or succeed to riparian forest, thus population persistence often depends on disturbance by beaver and periodic fire that eliminates encroaching woody shrubs and trees. Past management practices of beaver eradication and fire suppression have likely contributed to current low population abundances and restricted distribution. Ft. Bragg is currently investing in restoration and recovery for the butterfly.