Swamp Metalmark
(Calephelis mutica)
Swamp Metalmark sightings, by week (about)
Click to enlargeNorthern Kettle Moraine State Forest, Fond du Lac Co., WI. July 14, 2003.
Click to enlargeNorthern Kettle Moraine State Forest, Fond du Lac Co., WI. July 14, 2006.
Click to enlargeNorthern Kettle Moraine State Forest, Fond du Lac Co., WI. July 14, 2006. Same individual as above.
Click to enlargeChaffee Creek SNA, Marquette Co., WI. July 11, 1998.
Click to enlargeNorthern Kettle Moraine State Forest, Fond du Lac Co., WI. July 14, 2004. Puddling.
The Swamp Metalmark is a very rare butterfly in Wisconsin and throughout its range. It is listed as endangered, threatened or of special concern in Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan. In Wisconsin, this butterfly is listed as endangered. There are several ongoing attempts at introducing/reintroducing this butterfly into suitable habitats in Wisconsin and Illinois. I located an unknown colony of this species in northern Marquette County. I have spent much effort trying to locate other colonies in suitable habitat within twenty miles of this colony, but I have had no success.
Identifying characteristics: Above; reddish brown with two rows of irregular metallic lines. Below: Much different than the upper surface. A light yellow/brown with black dots and silvery specks.
Similar species: None in Wisconsin.
Habitat: Moist open areas where Swamp Thistle grows.
Flight: One brood; July through early August
Abundance: Rare, a Wisconsin state endangered species.
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Swamp Metalmark
Calephelis mutica