FWS Reclassifies Blue Butterfly as Threatened

The Fish and Wildlife Service is issuing a final rule reclassifying the Fender’s blue butterfly (Icaricia icarioides fenderi), an insect found only in the Willamette Valley of Oregon, from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The listing includes a 4(d) rule for this species that prohibits importation and exportation without a permit. The rule becomes effective Feb. 13.