Boloria acrocnema, Uncompahgre Fritillary Butterfly
- pollinators1
- Oct 15
- 1 min read
Updated: Nov 11
The Uncompahgre Fritillary (Boloria acrocnema) is one of Colorado’s rarest butterflies. Federally listed as an Endangered Species, it is found in only a few isolated populations above 12,000 feet in the San Juan Mountains. Adapted to harsh alpine conditions, adults are active for just a few weeks in June and July following the seasonal snowmelt. Adults are generalist pollinators of high-elevation wildflowers, while their life cycle is closely tied to the snow willow, a low-growing shrub that serves as a food source for their caterpillars. This specialized plant-insect relationship highlights the fragility of the fritillary’s habitat, which faces growing threats from climate change.
Conservation efforts, including habitat protection, population monitoring, and climate resilience research, will be needed to preserve this species.
In 2022, People & Pollinators Action Network (PPAN) championed CO Senate Bill 22-199 at the legislature, in which the CO Department of Natural Resources commissioned a study on our state's native pollinating insects.
Insects, often underestimated, play a remarkable role in our state's landscapes. Not only are they cool, but they are also vital contributors to essential ecosystem services. From pollination to waste decomposition, insects support Colorado's diverse landscapes, from the mountains to the rivers.
Join us as we delve into the world of this fascinating wildlife and learn about the Colorado Native Pollinating Insects Study (2024) report! Check out pages 33, 105 and 248-249 to discover more about the Uncompahgre Fritillary Butterfly!
