Oregon Branded Skipper (Hesperia colorado oregonia): recovery strategy [proposed] 2025

Species at Risk Act
Recovery Strategy Series
Adopted under Section 44 of SARA

Proposed

2025

Part 1 – Federal addition to the Recovery plan for the Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in British Columbia, prepared by Environment and Climate Change Canada

Preface

The federal, provincial, and territorial government signatories under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk (1996)^{Footnote 2} agreed to establish complementary legislation and programs that provide for effective protection of species at risk throughout Canada^{Footnote 3}. Under the Species at Risk Act (S.C. 2002, c.29)^{Footnote 4} (SARA), the federal competent ministers are responsible for the preparation of recovery strategies for listed Extirpated, Endangered, and Threatened species and are required to report on progress within five years after the publication of the final document on the SAR Public Registry.

The Minister of Environment and Climate Change is the competent minister under SARA for Oregon Branded Skipper and has prepared the federal component of this recovery strategy (Part 1), as per section 37 of SARA. To the extent possible, it has been prepared in cooperation with the Province of British Columbia as per section 39(1) of SARA. SARA section 44 allows the competent minister to adopt all or part of an existing plan for the species if it meets the requirements under SARA for content (sub-sections 41(1) or (2)). The Province of British Columbia provided the attached recovery plan for Oregon Branded Skipper (Part 2) as science advice to the jurisdictions responsible for managing the species in British Columbia. It was prepared in cooperation with Environment and Climate Change Canada.

Success in the recovery of this species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that will be involved in implementing the directions set out in this strategy and will not be achieved by Environment and Climate Change Canada, or any other jurisdiction alone. All members of the public are invited to join in supporting and implementing this strategy for the benefit of the species and society as a whole.

This recovery strategy will be followed by one or more action plans that will provide information on recovery measures to be taken by Environment and Climate Change Canada and other jurisdictions and/or organizations involved in the conservation of the species. Implementation of this strategy is subject to appropriations, priorities, and budgetary constraints of the participating jurisdictions and organizations.

The recovery strategy sets the strategic direction to support the recovery and/or survival of the species. It provides all persons in Canada with information to help take action on species conservation, including identification of critical habitat to the extent possible. Where available, critical habitat spatial data is found in the Critical Habitat for Species at Risk National Dataset^{Footnote 5}.

When critical habitat is identified, either in a recovery strategy or an action plan, SARA provides a legal framework that enables the protection of that critical habitat.

In the case of critical habitat identified for terrestrial species, including migratory birds, SARA requires that critical habitat identified in a federal protected area, referred to in SARA ss. 58(2), be described in the Canada Gazette within 90 days after the recovery strategy or action plan that identified the critical habitat is included in the Public Registry. The prohibition against destruction of critical habitat under subsection (ss.) 58(1) will apply 90 days after the description of that critical habitat is published in the Canada Gazette.

For critical habitat located on federal lands that are not a federal protected area, as in SARA ss. 58(2), the competent minister must make an order applying the ss. 58(1) prohibition against destruction of critical habitat if it is not already legally protected by a provision in, or measure under, SARA or any other Act of Parliament. If the competent minister does not make the order, a statement must be included on the Species at Risk Public Registry setting out how the critical habitat, or portions of it are legally protected on those federal lands.

For any other part or portion of critical habitat located on non-federal lands, if the competent minister forms the opinion that any portion of critical habitat is not protected by provisions in or measures under SARA or other Acts of Parliament, or the laws of the province or territory, SARA requires that the Minister recommend that the Governor in Council make an order to apply the ss. 61(1) prohibition against destruction of critical habitat. The discretion to protect critical habitat on non-federal lands that is not otherwise protected rests with the Governor in Council.

Acknowledgements

Development of this recovery strategy was coordinated by Environment and Climate Change Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service (ECCC CWS) – Pacific Region staff: Cindy Bertrán Cerino, Jared Maida, Linda Takahashi and Eric Gross. Megan Harrison (ECCC CWS-National Capital Region) provided helpful expertise and advice on drafts of this document. Danielle Yu (ECCC CWS-Pacific Region) provided additional assistance with critical habitat identification, mapping, and figure preparation. Jennifer Heron (B.C. Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship) provided helpful expertise and advice on drafts of this document. Crispin Guppy generously provided critical expert advice on specific topics related to critical habitat. iNaturalist staff James Pagé and Allison Siemens provided help gathering observation data. Huge appreciation to all iNaturalist observers: Steve Ansell, Mark Wynja, Sean McCann, Thomas Barbin, Jeremy Gatten, and Rand Ruland for collaborating as citizen scientists and provide useful observations to inform critical habitat for this species. Special thanks to Mark Wynja for his generosity sharing the cover page visual for this document.

Additions and modifications to the adopted document

The following sections have been included to address specific requirements of the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA) that are not addressed in the Recovery Plan for the Western Branded Skipper (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in British Columbia (Part 2 of this document, referred to henceforth as “the provincial recovery plan”) and/or to provide updated or additional information. All other sections of the provincial recovery plan have been adopted with no modifications. This species is listed under SARA as Oregon Branded Skipper (Hesperia colorado oregonia), as cited in the status report prepared by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC 2013). It also has the English common name Western Branded Skipper “oregonia subspecies”. The naming convention used by the British Columbia Conservation Data Centre (CDC) refers to the species as the “Western Branded Skipper.” In this document, this species is referred to as Oregon Branded Skipper. Both names refer to the same species (Hesperia colorado oregonia).

Under SARA, there are specific requirements and processes set out regarding the protection of critical habitat. Therefore, statements in the provincial recovery plan referring to protection of survival/recovery habitat may not directly correspond to federal requirements. Recovery measures dealing with the protection of habitat are adopted; however, whether these measures will result in protection of critical habitat under SARA will be assessed following publication of the final federal recovery strategy.

Recovery feasibility summary

This section replaces the “Recovery Feasibility Summary” in the provincial recovery plan.

Based on the following criteria that Environment and Climate Change Canada uses to establish recovery feasibility, as described in the Species at Risk Policies – Policy on Recovery and Survival^{Footnote 6}, recovery of the Oregon Branded Skipper has been deemed technically and biologically feasible.

Is recovery feasible?

1. Survival

Can survival characteristics be addressed to the extent that the species is no longer at significant risk^{Footnote 7} of extinction or extirpation as a result of human activity?

Yes. Oregon Branded Skipper is currently assessed as Endangered^{Footnote 8} . This species has a small distribution with an inferred decline in mature individuals due to ongoing loss of suitable habitat (COSEWIC 2013), compromising the populations’ redundancy and resiliency, and increasing its vulnerability to human-caused threats (key survival characteristics^{Footnote 9}). Suitable habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper occurs within both the coastal sand ecosystems and the Garry oak and associated ecosystems. Garry oak and associated ecosystems are currently recognized as one of Canada’s most at-risk terrestrial ecosystems and host hundreds of threatened species including Oregon Branded Skipper (Erickson 2000; Fuchs 2000; Barlow et al. 2021).

It is feasible to improve redundancy, resiliency and to address the species vulnerability to human-caused threats through habitat protection and restoration that focuses on improving the quality and quantity of habitat, and mitigate threats to the species (for example, application of Bascillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk)). In its recovered state, even if its historical condition is achieved, this species may continue to remain at-risk in Canada.

2. Independence (reliance on human intervention)

Is the species currently able to persist in Canada independent of deliberate human interventions, and/or will it eventually be able to achieve and maintain independence in the state where condition (1) is met, such that it is not reliant on significant, direct, ongoing human intervention?

Yes. There are currently ten extant subpopulations of Oregon Branded Skipper in British Columbia (Canada), and the species is not currently reliant on direct, human intervention. At least three of the subpopulations have records confirming evidence of breeding spanning multiple years (Cordova Spit, Camas Hill and Goldstream). In the future, both extant and newly recorded subpopulations should be able to persist independent of ongoing human interventions, as long as the redundancy and resiliency of the species is maintained, or improved, by addressing and mitigating human-caused threats.

3. Improvement

Can the species’ condition be improved over when it was assessed as at risk?

Yes. Four extant subpopulations of Oregon Branded Skipper have been identified since the COSEWIC Status Assessment (COSEWIC 2013) and the provincial recovery plan (2017) were published. A significant threat to Oregon Branded Skipper is the use and application of an aerial pesticide containing Btk to control the introduction and spread of non-native Spongy Moth (formerly Gypsy moth) (Lymantria dispar). Even though no spraying for Spongy Moth has occurred within close proximity to Oregon Branded Skipper sites in the last ten years, all extant sites are within potential future spray zones. The provincial Spongy Moth Technical Advisory Committee is aware of the presence of Oregon Branded Skipper and aims to avoid known subpopulations and habitat in the event of aerial and ground spray programs to control Spongy Moth (B. Bains pers. comm. July 2023).

Oregon Branded Skipper is also threatened by ongoing habitat conversion and loss. Suitable habitat for this species occurs within the Garry oak and associated ecosystems, and land conversion has vastly reduced the extent of this ecosystem and habitat for this species. There are, however, organizations such as the Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team (GOERT) implementing stewardship activities that aim to bring awareness to private landowners, land managers and land users about species at risk including Oregon Branded Skipper.

It is expected that the redundancy and resiliency of this species can be improved by working with local and provincial governments, private landowners, Indigenous Groups and organizations, and conservation organizations to implement recovery actions, habitat conservation measures and mitigate human-caused threats to improve the condition of this species.

1. Species status information

This section replaces information on SARA legal designations and conservation status for Oregon Branded Skipper in Canada in “Species Status Information” (section 2) within the provincial recovery plan.

The legal designation of Oregon Branded Skipper on SARA Schedule 1 is Endangered (2023).

* Rank 1– critically imperiled; 2– imperiled; 3- vulnerable to extirpation or extinction; 4- apparently secure; 5– secure;

** Red List is defined by the B.C. Conservation Data Centre as “Any species or ecosystem that is at risk of being lost (extirpated, endangered or threatened).”

2. Species population and distribution

This section replaces the information summary for known subpopulations of Oregon Branded Skipper in Canada (Figure 3 and Table 1 in section 3.2 of the provincial recovery plan).

Oregon Branded Skipper is at the northernmost extent of its global range on southeastern Vancouver Island, ranging south through the Puget Trough of southwest Washington State, through west-central Oregon to Trinity County in northern California. Approximately 10% of the species’ global range is in Canada.

Records for Oregon Branded Skipper in British Columbia (B.C.) date from 1894 to 2023, and is comprised of 22 (historical and extant) separate and discrete subpopulations (Table 2; Figure 1). This includes three new subpopulations documented since the preparation of the provincial recovery plan and one subpopulation confirmed as extant that was previously categorized as historical in the COSEWIC (2013) status report (Table 2).

^a Where identified, population names used in this Recovery Plan correspond to site names associated with the Conservation Data Centre (2016).

^b Population number is given to differentiate from EO due to new extant populations not being identified by an EO#.

^c EO numbers indicated align with those provided in the provincial recovery plan

^d Extant: occurrence has been recently verified as still existing. Historical: used when there is a lack of recent field information verifying the continued existence of the occurrence; there is no recent record despite extensive search effort within the general area and it has been more than 20 years since the most recent observation.

^e Location uncertainty – Accuracy Ranges per location vary from 5 to 21 m.

^f This location is no longer mapped. At the time the BC Recovery Plan was written, this location was identified as EO22.

* These data are sourced from iNaturalist, a Nonprofit social network of naturalists, citizen scientists, and biologists used as a database to record worldwide biodiversity. All records are Research Grade observations: Help · iNaturalist.

Element occurrence (EO) numbers align with those identified in the provincial recovery plan, except for new subpopulations documented in Englishman River (EO22), Quadra Island (EO23), and the confirmed subpopulation in Cameron Lake (EO4) (formerly historical). Three new subpopulations have been documented since the production of the provincial recovery plan in 2017 and have not been uploaded to the B.C. CDC as of February 2024: Cortes Island (2019), Whiskey Creek (2019), and Pender Hill (2023).

Figure 1. Extant Oregon Branded Skipper (Hesperia colorado oregonia) subpopulations in British Columbia, Canada (see Table 2).

3. Population and distribution objectives

The provincial recovery plan provides a statement on population and distribution objectives, and supporting rationale, that is, “Recovery (Population and Distribution) Goal” (section 5.1) and “Rationale for the Recovery (Population and Distribution) Goal” (section 5.2). Environment and Climate Change Canada adopts the intent of the provincial population and distribution goal with modifications as follows:

Population and distribution objective

The population and distribution objective is to recover Oregon Branded Skipper by improving the species’ resiliency, redundancy and vulnerability towards human-caused threats throughout the species range, through maintaining or restoring suitable habitat supporting all extant subpopulations, including any additional subpopulations that might be identified in the future, and addressing human-caused threats.

Rationale

Oregon Branded Skipper is endemic to the west coast of North America. Within Canada, only 10 extant subpopulations occur on Vancouver Island. Suitable habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper occurs within sparsely vegetated coastal sand ecosystems, including sand and gravel spits and Garry Oak scrub oak ecosystems, both of which are highly threatened ecosystems in Canada. This species was designated as Endangered^{Footnote 10} in Canada by COSEWIC in 2013 based on inferred declines in extent of occurrence, index of area of occupancy and quality of habitat, as well as ongoing vulnerability to human-caused threats at known subpopulations (at the time of the COSEWIC 2013 status report).

Recovery of Oregon Branded Skipper will be achieved by ceasing, mitigating, or avoiding the primary human-caused threats at all known subpopulations in Canada, such that the species persists. It is expected that the redundancy and resiliency for this species can be improved by working with local and provincial governments, private landowners, and conservation organizations to implement recovery action items, habitat conservation measures and mitigate human-caused threats to maintain or improve the habitat conditions for this species.

Furthermore, employing measures to maintain, restore and protect occupied, suitable habitat required by Oregon Branded Skipper, will:

1. improve the species’ ability to withstand disturbances and avoid demographic and genetic collapse by maintaining or improving population size and genetic diversity (resiliency); and
2. promote persistence of all known subpopulations, to support long term species survival by decreasing the risk of catastrophic loss or species extirpation from localized events (redundancy)

4. Critical habitat

This section replaces “Species Recovery and Survival Habitat” (section 7) in the provincial recovery plan.

Section 41 (1)(c) of SARA requires that recovery strategies include an identification of the species’ critical habitat, to the extent possible, as well as examples of activities that are likely to result in its destruction. The provincial recovery plan (Part 2, section 3.3) provides a written summary of habitat requirements for Oregon Branded Skipper. This science advice was used to inform the following critical habitat sections in this federal recovery strategy addition. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper is identified at known or presumed extant subpopulations, where occurrences have been observed within the last 20 years (since 2003), and the location uncertainty is less than or equal to 150 m (location uncertainty for all extant subpopulations ranged between 5 to 21 m). Based on these criteria, critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper is partially identified at this time. A schedule of studies (section 4.2) outlines the activities required to identify additional critical habitat necessary to support the population and distribution objectives (section 3) for the species. The identification of critical habitat will be updated when the information becomes available, either in a revised recovery strategy or action plan(s).

4.1 Identification of the species’ critical habitat

The dispersal ability of Oregon Branded Skipper is not well understood. Based on studies of biologically similar species, a dispersal estimate of 900-1000 m is appropriate for Oregon Branded Skipper (B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy 2017). The Recovery Strategy for Dun Skipper (Euphyes vestris) (Environment and Climate Change Canada 2017) considers 1000 m as an appropriate distance to use in delineating area containing critical habitat for this species. Moreover, NatureServe Explorer (Schweitzer 2001) identifies a default upper limit of 1000 m as an inferred extent buffer for grass skippers when the extent is unknown.

Other species of skippers are also assumed to have limited dispersal abilities. For instance, the Mardon Skipper (Polites mardon), has a maximum dispersal distance of approximately 1.6 km (Runquist 2004; Hatfield et al. 2015). Ottoe Skippers (Hesperia ottoe), on average move up to 53 m/day (Dana 1991).

Studies on the related Dakota Skipper (Hesperia dacotae) indicate movements ≤1 km between patches of prairie habitat separated by structurally similar habitats (Cochrane and Delphey 2002). This low dispersal distance may be linked to their short adult life span and single annual flight (Delphey et al. 2017; Post van der Burg et al. 2020). Dana (1991) estimated that Dakota Skipper dispersed less than 300 m within a 3 to 7-day period and the maximum life span is approximately 3 weeks.

Biophysical attributes description

Oregon Branded Skipper life cycle contains four distinct life stages, each with specific habitat requirements. The biophysical features and attributes required for Oregon Branded Skipper overlap biophysically, geospatially and seasonally, across all life stages.

A description of the essential features and attributes of habitat required to support the species life history functions are described in section 3.3, Table 2 of the provincial recovery plan, and form the basis of the biophysical attribute description in Table 3 below. Example photos of these features and attributes are also provided in Appendix 1.

^a Refers to the lower portion of the clump or tuft of grass. In the context of tussock grasses, which grow as singular plants in clumps or bunches, the base is where the individual grass stems emerge from the soil. It’s the part closest to the ground, where the roots anchor the plant and provide stability. In this case, the larvae construct tubular tent-like structures using the blades of the host plant and do so near the base of the grass plants. The larvae leave these structures to eat or construct new shelters elsewhere when host plant resources diminish (COSEWIC 2013).

^b Larval host plants, which are unknown for the oregonia subspecies but suspected to be red fescue (Festuca rubra) and Roemer’s fescue (Festuca roemeri) (COSEWIC 2013).

^c Gelling, L. 2015.

4.1.1 Information and methods used to identify critical habitat

The detailed geospatial areas containing critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper are based on the following additive components:

1. Selection of all verified extant occurrence records (characterized as observations within the last 20 years) including the associated location uncertainty distance
2. Application of a 1,000 m radial distance around all extant records to encompass lifetime seasonal dispersal capabilities necessary to support all life history functions
3. Dissolve overlapping polygons to ensure habitat connectivity among local subpopulations; and
4. Geospatial exclusion of large-scale features that Oregon Branded Skipper is not known to use or require, for example, large bodies of water (ocean)

4.1.2 Geospatial location of areas containing critical habitat

Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper is identified for 10 known extant subpopulations (Table 2) in southwestern B.C. (Figures 1 to 10); these are linked with element occurrence numbers provided in Table 2:

• Camas Hill (EO3) (Figure 2)
• Cordova Spit (EO5) (Figure 3)
• Cameron Lake (EO4) (Figure 4)
• Goldstream (EO7) (Figure 5)
• Mount Manuel Quimper (EO14) (Figure 6)
• Englishman River (EO22) (Figure 7)
• Quadra Island (EO23) (Figure 8)
• Cortes Island (NEW) (Figure 9)
• Whiskey Creek (NEW) (Figure 10)
• Pender Hill (NEW) (Figure 11)

The areas containing critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper (totaling 5,075.60 ha) are presented in Figures 2 to 11.

Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper in Canada occurs within the shaded yellow polygons shown on Figures 2 to 11. Within these polygons, clearly unsuitable habitats such as: (i) forested and agricultural areas, (ii) water areas beyond the range of shoreline vegetation, and (iii) existing permanent anthropogenic infrastructure (buildings) and/or running surfaces of paved roads or other artificial surfaces do not possess biophysical attributes required by Oregon Branded Skipper, therefore not identified as critical habitat. The 1 km x 1 km UTM grid overlay shown on these figures is a standardized national grid system that highlights the general geographic area containing critical habitat, for land use planning and/or environmental assessment purposes.

Figure 2. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Camas Hill (EO3) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 3. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Cordova Spit (EO5) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 4. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Cameron Lake (EO4) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 5. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Goldstream (EO7) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 6. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Mount Manuel Quimper (EO14) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 7. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Englishman River (EO22) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 8. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Quadra Island (EO23) is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 9. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Cortes Island is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 10. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Whiskey Creek is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

Figure 11. Critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper at Pender Hill is represented by the yellow polygons, except where excluded areas (as described in section 4.1.2) occur. The 1 km x 1 km standardized UTM grid overlay (red outline) shown on this figure is part of a standardized national grid systems used to indicate the general geographical area within which critical habitat is found.

5. Schedule of studies to identify critical habitat

The following schedule of studies (Table 4) outlines the activities required to complete the identification of critical habitat for Oregon Branded Skipper.

^a,b Aerial imagery suggests open habitat remains throughout the general geographic area; however, the available information is not sufficient to determine whether the habitat is suitable. Further ground-truthing and inventory is needed. The exact collection site is unknown; however, the area was historically a Garry oak and associated ecosystem (see section 3.2, Table 1 in the provincial recovery plan).

^c Suitable habitat may remain in the area; however, the collection site is unknown. Historically, this area is known to include Garry oak and associated ecosystems (see section 3.2, Table 1 in the provincial recovery plan).

^d Suitable sparsely vegetated habitat remains in area (see section 3.2, Table 1 in the provincial recovery plan).

^e Suitable Garry oak and associated ecosystem and sparsely vegetated habitat remains in the area (see section 3.2, Table 1 in the provincial recovery plan).

6. Activities likely to result in the destruction of critical habitat

Understanding what constitutes destruction of critical habitat is necessary for the protection and management of critical habitat. Destruction is determined on a case‑by‑case basis. Destruction would result if part of the critical habitat were degraded, either permanently or temporarily, such that it would not serve its function when needed by the species. Destruction may result from single or multiple activities at one point in time or from the cumulative effects of one or more activities over time. Activities described in Table 5 include those likely to cause destruction of critical habitat for the species; destructive activities are not limited to those listed.

^a Threat classification is based on the IUCN-CMP (World Conservation Union–Conservation Measures Partnership) unified threats classification system.

^b What is Btk? - Province of British Columbia (gov.bc.ca)

^c Btk can be applied from the ground. This technique could potentially reduce impacts to critical habitat (Spraying with Btk). Ground spraying can specifically target potential host vegetation without treating other non-target objects and plant species, compared to non-targeted, aerial application techniques. Therefore, minimizing contamination of biophysical attributes required to support Oregon Branded Skipper (J. Heron pers. comm. 2023). Ground spraying application of Btk should be considered a best practice within areas containing Critical Habitat of Oregon Branded Skipper.

^d Important to note that even though aerial drift is possible during aerial spraying, treatments are not completed if wind speeds exceed 8 km per hour (What is Btk - Province of British Columbia [(gov.bc.ca])

^e There has been an increase in recreational electric vehicles such as scooters and bicycles. There could be a risk from batteries overheating and igniting fires (J. Heron pers. comm. 2024).

7. Measuring progress

The provincial recovery plan contains a section on measuring progress (section 8 Measuring Progress) that outlines performance measures toward achieving four recovery objectives that are set out in that plan (that is, Part 2, section 5.3). Environment and Climate Change Canada adopts this content, with the inclusion of the following performance measures toward meeting the overarching recovery goal and the Population and Distribution Objectives (as stated in Part 2, section 5.1):

• the persistence of Oregon Branded Skipper has been maintained, and/or increased, at all known subpopulations; and
• the quantity and quality of Oregon Branded Skipper suitable habitat has been maintained, and/or improved, within the areas containing critical habitat at all ten known extant subpopulations: Camas Hill, Cordova Spit, Cameron Lake, Goldstream, Mount Manuel Quimper, Englishman River, Quadra Island, Cortes Island, Whiskey Creek, and Pender Hill, such that declines in population and distribution can no longer be inferred at any of these subpopulations

8. Statement on action plans

One or more action plans for Oregon Branded Skipper will be posted on the Species at Risk Public Registry within 10 years of the posting of the final recovery strategy.

9. Effects on the environment and other species

A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is conducted on all SARA recovery planning documents, in accordance with the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals^{Footnote 11}. The purpose of a SEA is to incorporate environmental considerations into the development of public policies, plans, and program proposals to support environmentally sound decision-making and to evaluate whether the outcomes of a recovery planning document could affect any component of the environment or any of the Federal sustainable development strategy goals and departmental contributions^{Footnote 12} (FSDS) goals and targets.

Recovery planning is intended to benefit species at risk and biodiversity in general. However, it is recognized that strategies may also inadvertently lead to environmental effects beyond the intended benefits. The planning process based on national guidelines directly incorporates consideration of all environmental effects, with a particular focus on possible impacts upon non‑target species or habitats. The results of the SEA are incorporated directly into the strategy itself, but are also summarized below in this statement.

The provincial recovery plan for Oregon Branded Skipper contains a section describing the effects of recovery activities on other species (that is, section 9). Environment and Climate Change Canada adopts this section of the provincial recovery plan as the statement on effects of recovery activities on the environment and other species.

Recovery planning activities for Oregon Branded Skipper will be implemented with consideration for all co-occurring species at risk, including: Contorted-pod Evening-primrose (Camissonia contorta), Silky Beach Pea (Lathyrus littoralis), Howell’s Triteleia (Triteleia howellii), Edward’s Beach Moth (Anarta edwardsii), Sand-verbena Moth (Copablepharon fuscum), Georgia Basin Bog Spider (Gnaphosa Snohomish; Special Concern) in order to avoid negative impacts to these co-occuring species or their habitats. Some management actions for Oregon Branded Skipper (for example, inventory and monitoring, threat mitigation, habitat conservation, education, and research) may promote the conservation of other species at risk that overlap in distribution and rely on similar bedrock meadows habitat attributes.

10. References

Barlow, C.M., M. G. Pellatt and K.E. Kohfeld. 2021. Garry oak ecosystem stand history in Southwest British Columbia, Canada: implications of environmental change and indigenous land use for ecological restoration and population recovery. Biodiversity Conservation 30, 1655 to 1672. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10531-021-02162-2

British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. 2017. Recovery plan for the Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in British Columbia. B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, Victoria, B.C. 42 pp.

COSEWIC. 2013. COSEWIC assessment and status report on the Oregon Branded Skipper (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in Canada. Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. Ottawa. ix + 51 pp. Oregon Branded Skipper, Hesperia colorado oregonia (ec.gc.ca)

Dana, R. P. 1991. Conservation Management of the Prairie Skippers Hesperia Dacotae and Hesperia Ottoe. Minnesota Agricultural Experiment Station. Retrieved from the University of Minnesota Digital Conservancy. 74 pp. https://hdl.handle.net/11299/139544.

Delphey, P., E. Runquist and C. Nordmeyer. 2017. Plan for the Controlled Propagation, Augmentation, and Reintroduction of Dakota skipper (Hesperia dacotae). Legislative-Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources, Minnesota. 60 pp.

Environment and Climate Change Canada. 2017. Recovery Strategy for the Dun Skipper (Euphyes vestris), Western Population, in Canada. Species at Risk Act Recovery Strategy Series. Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa. 2 parts, 24 pp. + 36 pp.

Environment and Climate Change Canada. 2021. Species at risk policy on recovery and survival: final version 2021.Retrieved from: Species at Risk policy on survival and recovery: final version 2021 - Canada.ca [Accessed on May 2023]

Erickson, W.R. 2000. Garry oak communities in Canada: classification, characterization and conservation. International Oaks 10:40 to 54. No. 10 International Oaks.pdf (internationaloaksociety.org).

Fuchs, M. 2000. Towards a recovery strategy for Garry Oaks and associated ecosystems in Canada: Ecological Assessment and Literature Review. Environment Canada, Canadian Wildlife Service. 106 pp.

Gelling, L. 2015. Habitat associations of adult Oregon Branded Skipper at Cordova Shore, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Journal of the Entomological Society of British Columbia 112:57 to 68.

Hatfield, R., S.H. Black, and S. Jepsen. 2015. The Imperiled Mardon Skipper Butterfly: An Initial Conservation Success. In: Daniels, J. (eds) Butterfly Conservation in North America. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-9852-5_7

Post van der Burg, M., J. E. Austin., W. Newton., G. MacDonald and M.T. Wiltermuth. 2020. Capturing Spatiotemporal Patterns in Presence-Absence Data to Inform Monitoring and Sampling Designs for the Threatened Dakota Skipper (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) in the Great Plains of the United States. Environmental Entomology 49(5):1252 to 1261. https://doi.org/10.1093/ee/nvaa081

Schweitzer, D.F. 2001. Population/occurrence delineation – AMBLYSCIRTES species. Section in NatureServe. 2023. NatureServe Explorer: An online encyclopedia of life [web application]. Version 7.1. NatureServe, Arlington, Virginia. Available: http://www.natureserve.org/explorer [Accessed July 2023].

11. Personal communication

Babita Bains. 2023. B.C Ministry of Forests, Office of the Chief Forester, Provincial Forest Entomologist. Email correspondence with Cindy Bertran Cerino.

Jennifer Heron. 2023 and 2024. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. Telephone and email correspondence with Cindy Bertran Cerino.

Appendix 1. Visual examples of critical features and attributes of Oregon Branded Skipper habitat

Figure A1 and A2. Oregon Branded Skipper sand spit habitat at Cordova Spit. August 2011. Photo by Jennifer Heron

Part 2 – Recovery plan for the Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in British Columbia, prepared by the British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy

Recovery plan for the Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in British Columbia

October 2017

About the British Columbia recovery strategy series

This series presents the recovery documents that are prepared as advice to the Province of British Columbia on the general approach required to recover species at risk. The Province prepares recovery documents to ensure coordinated conservation actions and to meet its commitments to recover species at risk under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada and the Canada–British Columbia Agreement on Species at Risk.

What is recovery?

Species at risk recovery is the process by which the decline of an endangered, threatened, or extirpated species is arrested or reversed, and threats are removed or reduced to improve the likelihood of a species’ persistence in the wild.

What is a provincial recovery document?

Recovery documents summarize the best available scientific and traditional information of a species or ecosystem to identify goals, objectives, and strategic approaches that provide a coordinated direction for recovery. These documents outline what is and what is not known about a species or ecosystem, identify threats to the species or ecosystem, and explain what should be done to mitigate those threats, as well as provide information on habitat needed for survival and recovery of the species. The provincial approach is to summarize this information along with information to guide implementation within a recovery plan. For federally led recovery planning processes, information is most often summarized in two or more documents that together make up a recovery plan: a strategic recovery strategy followed by one or more action plans used to guide implementation.

Information in provincial recovery documents may be adopted by Environment and Climate Change Canada for inclusion in federal recovery documents that federal agencies prepare to meet their commitments to recover species at risk under the Species at Risk Act.

What’s next?

The Province of British Columbia accepts the information in these documents as advice to inform implementation of recovery measures, including decisions regarding measures to protect habitat for the species.

Success in the recovery of a species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that may be involved in implementing the directions set out in this document. All British Columbians are encouraged to participate in these efforts.

For more information

To learn more about species at risk recovery in British Columbia, please visit the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy’s Recovery Planning website.

Recommended citation

B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. 2017. Recovery plan for the Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) in British Columbia. B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, Victoria, BC. 42 pp.

Cover illustration/photograph

Jeremy Gatten

Additional copies

Additional copies can be downloaded from the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy’s Recovery Planning website.

Disclaimer

This recovery plan has been prepared by the British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, as advice to the responsible jurisdictions and organizations that may be involved in recovering the species. The British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy has received this advice as part of fulfilling its commitments under the Accord for the Protection of Species at Risk in Canada and the Canada–British Columbia Agreement on Species at Risk.

This document identifies the recovery strategies and actions that are deemed necessary, based on the best available scientific and traditional information, to recover Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies populations in British Columbia. Recovery actions to achieve the goals and objectives identified herein are subject to the priorities and budgetary constraints of participatory agencies and organizations. These goals, objectives, and recovery approaches may be modified in the future to accommodate new findings.

The responsible jurisdictions have had an opportunity to review this document. However, this document does not necessarily represent the official positions of the agencies or the personal views of all individuals on the recovery team.

Success in the recovery of this species depends on the commitment and cooperation of many different constituencies that may be involved in implementing the directions set out in this plan. The British Columbia Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy encourages all British Columbians to participate in the recovery of the Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies.

Acknowledgements

This recovery plan was written by Jennifer Heron (B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy [ENV]) with input from Lea Gelling (B.C. Conservation Data Centre [CDC]), Crispin Guppy (Lepidopterist, Whitehorse, Yukon), and Jeremy Gatten (Lepidopterist, Victoria). Lea Gelling and Katrina Stipec at the CDC provided mapping support and element occurrence information. Trudy Chatwin (B.C. Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development [FLNR]), Erica McClaren (ENV). Brenda Costanzo (ENV), Lea Gelling (ENV), Nick Page (Raincoast Applied Biology), James Miskelly (Lepidopterist, Royal Roads University), Pascale Archibald (BC Conservation Foundation), Claudia and Darren Copley (Royal British Columbia Museum), and Patrick Lilley contributed information on plant communities, habitats, and search effort, and participated in a discussion of the threats assessment. Information on the species in the United States was provided by Ann Potter (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife) and Emilie Blevins (Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation). Some of the maps and figures included in this report originally appeared in the 2013 Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada status report; others were created by Byron Woods (ENV). Scientific and technical review was provided by: Peter Fielder, Leah Westereng, Excedera St. Louis, and Karen Stefanyk (ENV); Paul Grant and Connie Miller-Retzer (FLNR); Matt Huntley and Kella Sadler (Environment and Climate Change Canada–Canadian Wildlife Service [ECCC–CWS]–Pacific Region; and Paul Johanson (ECCC–CWS–National Capital Region). Thank you to Gwen Underwood, Belinda Claxton, and the Tsawout First Nation for enabling access and support to surveys on Tsawout First Nation land.

Executive summary

Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) is a small butterfly (wingspan 25 to 37 mm) in the skipper family Hesperiidae. It also has the English common name Oregon Branded Skipper, as cited in the status report prepared by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). The naming convention used by the British Columbia Conservation Data Centre refers to the species as the “Western Branded Skipper.” In this document, this species is referred to as the “oregonia subspecies.”

The oregonia subspecies was assessed as Endangered by COSEWIC in 2013 but is not listed on Schedule 1 of the federal Species at Risk Act (SARA).^{Footnote P2.1} In British Columbia, the oregonia subspecies is ranked as S1 (critically imperiled) by the British Columbia Conservation Data Centre and is on the provincial Red list (that is, any species or ecosystem that is at risk of being lost [extirpated, endangered, or threatened]). The provincial Conservation Framework ranks the oregonia subspecies as a priority 2 under goal three (maintain the diversity of native species and ecosystems). Recovery is considered biologically and technically feasible.

The oregonia subspecies has tawny-orange wings with distinctive whitish markings and an erratic flight pattern. The adult flight period is late July through mid-September, with one generation per year. The oregonia subspecies inhabits two general habitat types: (1) sparsely vegetated, coastal sand ecosystems, including sand and gravel spits; and (2) scrub oak ecosystems, both of which are subgroups of Garry Oak and associated ecosystems.

Ten named subspecies of the Western Branded Skipper occur in North America although the taxonomy of this species is complex. Three known subspecies range within Canada. The oregonia subspecies’ range in Canada is restricted to the southern portion of Vancouver Island. Within this restricted range are 18 populations: 5 extant and 13 historical. Of the 13 historical populations, 3 are in areas where suitable habitat still exists and the other 10 are from sites that have no remaining suitable habitat or that have vague locality data and, therefore, unknown habitat suitability.

The primary threat to the oregonia subspecies is the potential spray of a commercial pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki to control the introduction and spread of non-native Gypsy Moth. Secondary threats include: ecosystem modifications (that is, the indirect cumulative threats from natural succession related to fire suppression and invasive non-native plant growth within oregonia subspecies habitats); recreational activities at some habitats that result in trampling of host and habitat plants from dog walking and hiking; and severe weather events associated with climate change (for example, storms and flooding).

The recovery (population and distribution) goal is to maintain the abundance and distribution of all extant oregonia subspecies populations (as represented by the area of occupancy at extant sites) within British Columbia, including any additional populations that may be identified in the future.

The recovery objectives for the oregonia subspecies are:

1. to secure protection ^{Footnote P2.2} for the extant populations with no loss or degradation of occupied habitat
2. to confirm the distribution of this subspecies within its range in British Columbia
3. to assess the extent of threats to each of the extant populations and reduce their impacts; and
4. to address knowledge gaps such as habitat requirements, biological attributes, life history, and ecological factors, for the successful maintenance of this subspecies, including habitat restoration if necessary

Recovery feasibility summary

The recovery of the oregonia subspecies in British Columbia is considered technically and biologically feasible based on the following four criteria that Environment and Climate Change Canada uses to establish recovery feasibility.

1. Individuals of the wildlife species that are capable of reproduction are available now or in the foreseeable future to sustain the population or improve its abundance.

Yes. The oregonia subspecies is known from five extant populations within British Columbia. At least three of these extant populations (Cordova Spit, Camas Hill, and Goldstream) have records spanning multiple years that provide evidence of breeding and sustaining a long-term presence within the area. The Mount Manuel Quimper population is recorded from a large natural area that has not had a complete inventory for the oregonia subspecies. The Port Renfrew population is newly recorded (as of 2012) on private land; this site has little associated habitat or threat information to ascertain the size of the population or its long-term viability.

2. Sufficient suitable habitat is available to support the species or could be made available through habitat management or restoration.

Yes. Sufficient suitable habitat is available to support the five extant populations; however, this habitat will require ongoing management to sustain the abundance and area of occupancy of these extant populations over the longer term. The habitat supporting the oregonia subspecies populations is slowly becoming unsuitable because of ecosystem modifications from the cumulative threats of ongoing natural succession of native species (for example, Douglas-fir ingrowth [Pseudotsuga menziesii), encroachment by non-native invasive vegetation (for example, scotch broom [Cytisus scoparius]), and ongoing fire suppression programs. Threats that reduce habitat quality also include recreational activities (for example, dog walking, defecation and urination, trampling, digging). Examples of habitat management and restoration actions to reduce these threats include the removal of non-native plants and encroaching native vegetation, and restricted access to important habitats through fencing or designated trails for dogs and hikers.

Additional areas of potentially suitable habitat on southeastern Vancouver have been surveyed for the oregonia subspecies with null results. Inventory included areas within the vicinity of Courtenay, Comox, Black Creek, Parksville, Nanaimo, Duncan, Shawnigan Lake, greater Victoria, Sooke, Salt Spring Island, Galiano Island, Mayne Island, and other Gulf Islands (COSEWIC 2013).

3. The primary threats to the species or its habitat (including threats outside Canada) can be avoided or mitigated.

Unknown. The primary threat to the oregonia subspecies is the application of an aerial pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki to control the introduction and spread of non-native Gypsy Moth. It is unknown whether this primary threat can be avoided or mitigated since it requires extensive resources and the timing of the threat is difficult to predict. Secondary threats include the ingrowth of plants by natural succession (partially the result of ongoing fire suppression programs throughout the subspecies’ range), including invasive species encroachment; and recreational activities at some habitats (for example, trampling of host and habitat plants from dog walking and hiking).

4. Recovery techniques exist to achieve the population and distribution objectives or can be expected to be developed within a reasonable timeframe.

Yes. Existing techniques to achieve population and distribution objectives include developing species-specific inventory techniques that record emergence dates, monitor abundance, record oviposition (egg laying) sites and confirm site-specific threats. These data will enable decision makers to implement habitat protection measures at known sites and/or improve habitat management within protected areas. Information will also aid in prioritizing sites for inventory in unchecked habitats. Captive breeding to supplement the wild populations is not considered necessary for the recovery of the oregonia subspecies. Captive breeding may take place to gain knowledge regarding this subspecies’ life history and reproductive capabilities. Additional recovery techniques to achieve the population and distribution objectives are expected to be developed within a reasonable time frame.

1. COSEWIC species assessment information

Assessment summary: November 2013

Common name: Oregon Branded Skipper^a

Scientific name: Hesperia colorado oregonia

Status: Endangered

Reason for designation: This species inhabits sparsely vegetated Garry Oak and coastal sand spit ecosystems that have undergone enormous historic losses. The populations of this skipper have likely undergone similar declines and only four of sixteen sites totalling less than 16 km² remain extant. This habitat is fragmented and disjunct. The greatest threats this skipper faces at present, however, are the application of Btk (Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki) pesticide, used to control the invasive Gypsy Moth, and vegetation succession in the open habitats.

Occurrence: British Columbia

Status history: Designated Endangered in November 2013

COSEWIC = Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada

^a This report uses B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016) nomenclature, “Western Branded Skipper”

2. Species status information

Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies^a

Legal Designation:

Forest and Range Practices Act:^b No

Oil and Gas Activities Act:^b No

B.C. Wildlife Act:^c No

Species at Risk Act:^d No

Conservation Status^e

B.C. List: Red B.C.

Rank: S1 (2013)

National Rank: N1 (May 2013)

Global Rank: G5T3T4 (Feb. 2016)

Other Subnational Ranks:^f United States: Washington (S2)

B.C. Conservation Framework^g

Goal 1: Contribute to global efforts for species and ecosystem conservation.

Priority:^h 3 (2009)

Goal 2: Prevent species and ecosystems from becoming at risk.

Priority:^h 6 (2009)

Goal 3: Maintain the diversity of native species and ecosystems.

Priority:^h 2 (2009)

Conservation Framework Action Groups:^g

Review status rank; inventory

^a Data source: B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016) unless otherwise noted.

^b No = not listed in one of the categories of wildlife that requires special management attention to address the impacts of forestry and range activities on Crown land under the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA; Province of British Columbia 2002) and/or the impacts of oil and gas activities on Crown land under the Oil and Gas Activities Act (OGAA; Province of British Columbia 2008).

^c No = not designated as wildlife under the B.C. Wildlife Act (Province of British Columbia 1982).

^d No = not on any Schedules under the Species at Risk Act (SARA; Government of Canada 2002). The COSEWIC assessment will be reviewed by the Governor in Council who may, on the recommendation of the Minister, amend the List to include this species on Schedule 1 of SARA.

^e Red: Includes any indigenous species or subspecies that have, or are candidates for, Extirpated, Endangered, or Threatened status in British Columbia. S = subnational; N = national; G = global; T = refers to the subspecies level; X = presumed extirpated; H = possibly extirpated; 1 = critically imperilled; 2 = imperilled; 3 = special concern, vulnerable to extirpation or extinction; 4 = apparently secure; 5 = demonstrably widespread, abundant, and secure; NA = not applicable; NR = unranked; U = unrankable.

^f Data source: NatureServe (2016).

^g Data source: B.C. Ministry of Environment (2009).

^h Six-level scale: Priority 1 (highest priority) through to Priority 6 (lowest priority).

3. Species information

3.1 Species description

Western Branded Skipper, oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) is a small butterfly in the skipper family, Hesperiidae. It also has the common name “Oregon Branded Skipper,” as cited in the status report prepared by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC 2013). The naming convention used by the British Columbia Conservation Data Centre refers to the species as the “Western Branded Skipper” (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016). In this recovery plan, the species is referred to as the “oregonia subspecies.”

The oregonia subspecies is one of 10 described subspecies of Western Branded Skipper (H. colorado) recognized in North America. The taxonomy surrounding this species is complex and more subspecies remain to be described (Layberry et al.1998; Guppy and Shepard 2001; Pyle 2002; Pelham 2008; Guppy, pers. comm., 2016).

At least three subspecies of Western Branded Skipper range in Canada. The oregonia subspecies ranges within lower elevations (sea level to 600 m) between the central to the southern tip of Vancouver Island (Pelham 2008; B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016). A second Western Branded Skipper subspecies in Canada is unnamed and occurs at higher elevations on Vancouver Island (elevation range is unknown). The geographic and elevational boundaries of this undescribed subspecies will remain unknown until further genetic and morphological work is completed (Guppy, pers. comm., 2016). A third subspecies, H. c. harpalus (Pelham 2008) occurs in the southwestern interior of British Columbia, with no records in southern Alberta but a few in the Cypress Hills of southwestern Saskatchewan (Layberry et al. 1998). A taxonomic revision of Hesperia is under way and will likely change the species and/or subspecies names applicable to these populations (Guppy, pers. comm., 2016); however, this revision will not change the known distribution or conservation status of the low-elevation west coast Vancouver Island taxon, which is currently named the oregonia subspecies (Guppy, pers. comm., 2016) and the focus of this recovery plan.

The oregonia subspecies has four distinct life stages (egg, larva, pupa, and adult) with a generation time of 1 year. The following morphological description of these life stages is summarized from COSEWIC (2013), Layberry et al. (1998), Guppy and Shepard (2001), Pyle (2002), and James and Nunnallee (2011).

3.1.1 Adults

The oregonia subspecies has a wingspan of 25 to 37 mm and long, clubbed antenna that are less than one-third of the wing length (Pyle 2002). The dorsal and ventral wing surface coloration differs. The dorsal wing surfaces have orange spots in the centre of a tawny, reddish brown wing, and wing margins outlined by a broad dark brown band. The ventral wing surfaces are an overall rich brown base colour with a post-median line of distinctive and regularly aligned sharp, yellowish, silver-white spots that are small in proportion to the overall wing size (Layberry et al. 1998; Guppy and Shepard 2001; Pyle 2002). Ventral wing surfaces appear greenish-grey in flight (refer to cover photo). The males have dart-like stigmata (prominent cells) on the dorsal forewing (Pyle 2002); the females lack these stigmata. The adult flight season is from mid-July to mid-September.

The oregonia subspecies adults differ from other H. colorado subspecies by their dorsal wing coloration, which has been described as “warmly reddish above and has an olive disk with light yellowish spots (or white on the females) without a pearly luster” (Pyle 2002).

Figure 1 of part 2. Oregonia subspecies adult (dorsal surface). Specimen from the Royal BC Museum (Jennifer Heron photo).

The life cycle of the oregonia subspecies was documented by Hardy (1954) who collected eggs and larva, and reared these individuals through to adults. The information below is summarized from Hardy (1954), as well as general information about Western Branded Skipper from James and Nunnallee (2011).

3.1.2 Eggs

The eggs are hemispherical (1 × 0.8 mm) with a smooth, slightly depressed micropylar area and fine microscopic reticulations. When first laid, the egg is a dull chalky white, eventually changing to pink and then pearly grey as it ages. Females ovipost (lay) eggs singly within suitable vegetation throughout the adult flight season, mid-July through mid-September.

3.1.3 Larva

The tiny (2 mm in length) first instar larvae hatch shortly after oviposition (egg laying). The larval body colour is pale beige or putty coloured, with large and jet black heads and a spindle-shaped, stout body. Larvae grow through a series of up to six instars (body exoskeleton molts and a larger, more robust caterpillar emerges), and as they grow and moult their head colour becomes tan to black and the body colour green to tan (Guppy and Shepard 2001). The final (sixth) instar is reddish with black spiracles and grows to approximately 30 mm in length and 6 mm in width. Just before pupation, larvae turn brownish-purple. Larvae are active from July through October, entering diapause (winter hibernation) sometime in the fall. Larvae emerge from diapause sometime in the spring and begin feeding again. The specific larval instar, dates, and/or timing of larval diapause and emergence are unknown for the oregonia subspecies.

3.1.4 Pupae

The pupae have dull pink abdominal segments, bluish-black wing cases, and a double row of transverse dark abdominal dashes along the sides of the body. Pupae are approximately 20 mm long and 6 mm wide, and the transverse abdominal markings become much darker in colour just before adult emergence.

Three other skippers occur within the range and habitat of the oregonia subspecies: Dun Skipper (Euphyes vestris), Woodland Skipper (Ochlodes sylvanoides), and European Skipper (Thymelicus lineola). These species have concurrent flight periods, as well as similar flight behaviour and morphological characteristics.

Dun Skipper has an overall consistent dark chocolate brown ventral wing coloration with no white markings.

Woodland Skipper has a tawny-orange ventral wing coloration similar to the oregonia subspecies; however, the ventral wing margins have a sharply defined and darker brown border. The ventral forewing and hindwing are also different; the hindwing has distinct large yellow spots and the forewing has a sharply defined brown zigzag mark.

European Skipper has thick black wing margins on the ventral surfaces, lacks spots on the dorsal and ventral wing surfaces, and has dorsal wing surfaces with a brownish border.

See Guppy and Shepard (2001) and Pyle (2002) for additional information on these similar species.

3.2 Populations and distribution

The oregonia subspecies is at the northernmost extent of its global range on southern Vancouver Island, B.C. It ranges southward into the Puget Trough of Washington State, through west-central Oregon to northern California (Figure 2 of part 2). Approximately 10% of the subspecies’ global range is in Canada.

Within Canada, the oregonia subspecies is restricted to the coastal lowlands of southern Vancouver Island, from the Victoria area north through the Cowichan Valley to Duncan and Maple Bay areas and west to Port Renfrew (Figure 3 of part 2) (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016).

Records for the oregonia subspecies in the province date from 1894 to 2015, comprising 18 separate and discrete populations (Table 1 of part 2; Figure 3 of part 2). This includes one new subpopulation (E) documented since the preparation of the COSEWIC (2013) status report.

Populations are considered separate if a large distance of unsuitable habitat exists between occurrence records. For the oregonia subspecies, the separation distance between two populations is a minimum of 4 km of unsuitable habitat (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016). Separate populations are considered discrete and do not intermix with other populations; however, some of these populations have numerous sites (Table 1 of part 2).

The following five populations are considered extant based on recent records and the presence of natural habitat that is considered suitable for the oregonia subspecies (Section 3.3):

A. Camas Hill, Metchosin (2011)

B. Cordova Spit; south Vancouver Island (2015)

C. Goldstream (2009)

D. Mount Manuel Quimper (2012)

E. Port Renfrew (2012)

Thirteen populations are considered historical (possibly extirpated) as no records occurred within the past 40 years. Three of these populations (F, G, and H; see below, respectively) are at sites where suitable habitat remains. Although this habitat could potentially allow the oregonia subspecies to persist, recent surveys (Section 6.1) have not confirmed the subspecies from these habitats.

F. Rithet’s Bog, Vancouver Island (1951)

G. Mount Douglas Saanich Park, Victoria (1953)

H. Oak Bay, near Uplands Park, Victoria (1953)

The remaining 10 populations (I to R) have vague collection information and it is unlikely that suitable habitat persists in the general geographic area. If aerial photos suggest natural habitat persists, this information is insufficient to evaluate the habitat potential and therefore it is unknown whether this habitat is suitable for the Western Branded Skipper. It is likely these populations will be assessed as “extirpated” by the Conservation Data Centre; however, in the interim they are considered historical.

Figure 2 of part 2. The oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) estimated global range (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016).

Figure 3 of part 2. The oregonia subspecies (Hesperia colorado oregonia) distribution in British Columbia (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016). See Table 1 of part 2 for corresponding population names.

^a See to Figure 3 of part 2 for population location.

^b Where identified, population names used in this Recovery Plan correspond to site names associated with the Conservation Data Centre (2016).

^c B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016).

^d COSEWIC (2013).

^e Extant: occurrence has been recently verified as still existing. Historical: used when there is a lack of recent field information verifying the continued existence of the occurrence; there is no recent record despite extensive search effort within the general area and it has been more than 20 years since the most recent observation.

^f Each year listed in this column may correspond to a different site within the element occurrence. Information is summarized from B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016); more detailed information about collection sites within an element occurrence is available through the BC Species and Ecosystem Explorer.

^g na = not applicable, applied here when the observation was recorded after publication of the COSEWIC status report (2013).

^h B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016).

Determination of a population is based on some evidence of historical or current presence of breeding, which includes oviposition, the presence of active larva, the shed exoskeleton of a larva, the shed pupal casing after adult emergence, and potential breeding habitat (Section 3.3).

Table 1 of part 2 shows the correspondence between population sites referred to in this Recovery Plan and those referred to in the COSEWIC status report (COSEWIC 2013). Any discrepancies between these population sites occur for the following reasons.

• When the Conservation Data Centre mapped the populations for this subspecies, some of the COSEWIC (2013) sites were combined (that is, a population can be composed of multiple sites)
• Some of the information on historical populations was considered vague (that is, COSEWIC sites 13 to 19; Table 1 of part 2) as specific geographic collection data were not available (Royal B.C. Museum database; Copley, pers. comm., 2016) and does not have remaining suitable habitat which could have been the potential collection site
• Although Lea (2015) lists Nanaimo Lakes Road as an occurrence of the oregonia subspecies, genetic barcoding has identified these specimens as the nominate subspecies (H. comma) and not the oregonia subspecies, invalidating this collection site (errata Gelling 2016)

Few data are available to estimate the abundance of extant oregonia subspecies populations. Although some populations have been surveyed over multiple years, surveys have focused on recording the presence of the subspecies, as well as the spatial area that the population occupies and the potential habitat within the habitat patch. This infrequent data collection does not allow for population estimates within a habitat patch.

The oregonia subspecies likely does not experience extreme fluctuations in abundance; however, insufficient information exists to estimate population fluctuations or trends. The natural population fluctuations in skippers are a result of limiting factors, such as parasites, predators, ambient daily temperatures and long-term seasonal temperatures, and the previous years’ weather.

3.3 Habitat and biological needs of the Oregonia subspecies

3.3.1 General habitat

The Canadian range of the oregonia subspecies is restricted to lowland and open, sparsely vegetated areas of coastal Douglas-fir biogeoclimatic zone (B.C. Ministry of Forests 2009). Within this zone, the skipper inhabits two general habitat types:

1. sparsely vegetated coastal sand ecosystems, including sand and gravel spits; and
2. scrub oak ecosystems, which are a subgroup of Garry oak and associated ecosystems (Table 1 of part 2 )

In general, both these habitat types contain bunchgrasses and short turf grasses (MacNeill 1964), which are important to the larvae for construction of their tubular shelters. These habitats have significant areas of open, well-drained sandy soil and patches of exposed bare ground (MacNeill 1964; Thomas 1983; Thomas et al. 1986; Dennis 2010). These open areas are important habitat for other related skippers (for example, H. comma in Britain [Thomas et al. 1986], Polites mardon in south Puget Sound, Washington State [Pyle 2002], and H. assiniboia in Alberta [Schmidt, pers. comm., 2012]) and are also thought important to the oregonia subspecies. Habitats also require an abundance of larval host plants, which are unknown for the oregonia subspecies but suspected to be red fescue (Festuca rubra) and Roemer’s fescue (F. roemeri). Other non-native grass species, such as ryegrasses (Lolium spp.) and brome grass (Bromus spp.), have been consumed by larvae in captivity (Section 3.3.2).

Sparsely vegetated coastal sand ecosystem habitats, including sand and gravel spits

The most studied oregonia subspecies population occurs at Cordova Spit (population B; Figure 3 of part 2) (Gelling 2015), which is a sparsely vegetated, open coastal sand ecosystem (Ward et al. 1998). The shallow soil, gravel, exposed bedrock, and sand inhibit significant tree and shrub growth at these habitats. Patches of low-lying vegetation tend to occur, along with significant moss and herbaceous plant growth. The shifting soil, ocean salt spray, erratic winds, overall shortage of nutrients and fresh water to the vegetation, and intense exposure to summer heat and drought mean the vegetation grows slowly at these habitats (Ward et al. 1998).

Results from a study on habitat associations at Cordova Spit showed that most of the oregonia subspecies individuals observed (91%) were found within the dune wildrye–beach pea (Leymus mollis–Lathyrus japonicus) terrestrial ecosystem, with 9% observed in the black knotweed–yellow sand verbena (Polygonum paronychia–Abronia latifolia) terrestrial ecosystem (Gelling 2015).

Garry oak and associated ecosystem habitats

At least 10 of the oregonia subspecies populations are recorded from habitats characterized as Garry oak and associated ecosystem (Table 1 of part 2). Most of these populations are considered historical, and the specific habitat details at the oregonia subspecies collection sites are unknown.

Garry oak and associated ecosystems have been described in detail by Roemer (1972) and Erickson (1993, 1995), and further grouped into two major ecosystem types: parkland Garry oak ecosystems and scrub Garry oak ecosystems (Pojar 1980a, 1980b). The oregonia subspecies has been recorded from the scrub oak ecosystem type, which is characterized by shallow soils and shorter, scrubby oak trees typically growing on rock outcrops and benches. Detailed vegetative components of scrub oak habitat types are not formally described and may only contain a partial suite of species commonly found in other Garry oak woodlands, such as maritime meadows and vernal pool ecosystems (Lea 2011).

3.3.2 Specific habitat functions

The oregonia subspecies has four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult, with each requiring specific habitat features. The previous and current year’s weather and habitat quality available to one life stage greatly influences the population demographics of the subsequent life stages. Limited information is available to describe the habitat requirements for each life stage.

Table 2 of part 2 summarizes each essential function of the oregonia subspecies’ life stage and required habitat features. Further details are provided in the following discussion.

^a Function: a life-cycle process of the species (for example, breeding, feeding/foraging).

^b Feature: the essential structural components of the habitat required by the species. The specific thresholds (measurements and qualifiers, that is, Attributes) to each of the features listed are unknown.

Oviposition and egg development habitat

Oviposition occurs during the adult skipper flight period, from late July (earliest record July 21) through mid-September (latest record September 22) with one generation per year (Guppy and Shepard 2001; B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016). Female skippers oviposit eggs singly at the base of host plants (Section 3.3.2) or on other structures (James and Nunnallee 2011). The egg remains at this place until it hatches.

Oviposition and egg development substrate is not good evidence of the subspecies larval host plant, because Hesperia will oviposit on other substrates near the host, including fence posts and tree trunks (MacNeill 1964; Pyle 2002). Hardy (1954) observed captive females oviposit on grass, twigs, or the net enclosure.

Oviposition has not been observed in the wild in British Columbia. It is unknown how many eggs are oviposited at one time in the wild; however, when confined to an enclosure, captive females laid up to 40 eggs (one female laid 40 eggs, another group of three females laid 50 eggs total) within a 2-day span (Hardy 1954).

Following oviposition, the egg remains sitting in the dry vegetation, overwinters for approximately 7 months, and hatches into a first instar larvae sometime between March and mid-April. Recent evidence suggests that some eggs may hatch and overwinter as first instar larvae (James and Nunnallee 2011), but this is unconfirmed for the oregonia subspecies.

Larval habitat

The oregonia subspecies larvae have not been observed in the wild in British Columbia. Larvae grow by incomplete metamorphosis and require sufficient host plant(s) to progress through a series of moults (egg-hatch to pupal stage and adult emergence).

The suspected larval host plant, red fescue, grows within dry, disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields, stream banks, meadows, gravelly sites, and beaches (Douglas et al. [editors] 2001). The other suspected host plant, Roemer’s fescue, is a mid- to late-succession plant that grows in fine- to medium-textured mineral soil under moderately acid to slightly alkaline conditions (Darris et al. 2007). This plant has extensive roots and is drought resistant, yet grows in the range of moderately dry to wet meadows, grassy areas, and open habitats. Neither red fescue (S5) nor Roemer’s fescue (S4) is at risk in British Columbia (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016).

In the Puget Sound prairies of Washington State, the oregonia subspecies females have been documented to oviposit on long-stoloned sedge (Carex inops) and California oatgrass (Danthonia californica) (Pyle 2002). Both these plants grow throughout southeastern Vancouver Island (and elsewhere in the province) in lowland, moist to dry rock outcrops, meadows, and open woodlands (Douglas et al. [editors] 2001). In British Columbia, long-stoloned sedge is ranked vulnerable (S3S4) and California oatgrass secure (S5) (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016).

In captivity, the oregonia subspecies larvae fed on non-native grasses, such as bromes and ryegrasses (Hardy 1954; MacNeill 1964). Individuals of the nominate subspecies laid eggs on yellow foxtail (Setaria glauca) in a captive setting (James and Nunnallee 2011).

Upon hatching in mid-April, larvae feed for 4 months through the spring and summer. They construct small tent like structures for refuge between feeding, leave the structures to eat and, as they grow or host plant resources diminish, will construct new shelters elsewhere (Hardy 1954; James and Nunnallee 2011). Larvae go through six instars before pupation, which occurs sometime from early July to late August.

Pupation and emergence habitat

When larvae are ready to pupate into adult skippers, they require emergence habitat. Pupation from larva to adult skipper occurs from July through August, although pupation has not been observed in the wild in British Columbia. Final instar larvae construct a silken cocoon concealed within a tightly woven nest made from grass blades. The larvae complete metamorphosis (transition from larval form to pupa and emerge as an adult skipper) within these silken cocoons. More research is needed to characterize the emergence habitat, including associated information about: cover objects; slope, aspect, and ambient temperature of emergence site; minimum size of a larva for pupation; host plant vegetation indicators; temperature and weather conditions; and/or other potentially relevant factors.

Foraging habitat

The oregonia subspecies drinks the nectar from various native and non-native flowering plants (called “nectaring”), although the complete list of these plants is not fully known. At Cordova Spit (population B; Figure 3 of part 2), the oregonia subspecies has been observed nectaring on American searocket (Cakile edentula) and Puget Sound gumweed (Grindelia stricta integrifolia) (Costanzo, pers. obs., 2011; Heron, pers. obs., 2011). The skipper likely nectars on other flowering plants throughout their flight season; however, fewer flowering plants remain in the hot, dry, and exposed skipper habitats late in the season. In addition, the corolla (tube) of the flower must be shallow enough to allow the skipper’s proboscis (tongue) to reach the nectar, and this physiological trait may limit the flowers the skipper is able to forage upon (Section 3.5).

The spatial extent of skipper foraging patterns is not well studied. In a mark-recapture study on the related Dakota Skipper (Hesperia dacotae), which occurs in native tall-grass and upland dry mixed-prairie within Saskatchewan and Manitoba, this species dispersed less than 300 m within a 3 to 7-day period (Dana 1991). The estimated maximum life span is 3 weeks, with one individual recaptured 19 days after it had been marked during this same mark-recapture study (Dana 1991). The residency of a skipper at a site before emigration and/or death was estimated at 3 to 10 days (Dana 1991). When defining terrestrial foraging, breeding, and/or oviposition habitat, a 900-m buffer surrounding the known habitat patch may be appropriate for the oregonia subspecies (based on a maximum 3-week life span, with up to 300 m dispersal per week).

The adult foraging habitat for the oregonia subspecies also includes the aerial areas above the oviposition habitat. Males patrol for females within a defined territory, perching or hill-topping in wait of passing females. The spatial area of habitat needed to sustain a population, aerial height to which the skippers will fly, foraging distance, and horizontal area that adult male skippers patrol is unknown and requires further study.

Perching, roosting, mating, and copulating habitat

The oregonia subspecies requires perching and roosting habitat within which to take cover and rest. Like most Hesperia species, this subspecies is very active, with short rapid flight, moving and darting around its habitats. As is typical of skippers, the oregonia subspecies uses low shrubs, twigs, grasses, and patches of bare ground. Perching, roosting, mating, and copulating is also most commonly observed within the oviposition habitat.

Skipper mating and copulating habitat is similar to the foraging habitat described above. Females will fly through the habitat patch emitting a pheromone that alerts males. Males have a defined territory they patrol, perching or hill-topping in wait of passing pheromone-calling females. Males are considered opportunistic, and will approach a female when she is perched and nectaring. During copulation, mating pairs need perching or resting sites. The spatial area of this habitat requires further study.

Adult skippers require warm and exposed bare ground for basking (Guppy and Shepard 2001; Pyle 2002). The related Silver-spotted Skipper (Hesperia comma) selects oviposition sites with bare ground and shorter, hotter turf (Thomas 1983; Thomas et al. 1986; Dennis 2010). The spatial area and distribution of bare ground will change over time within a habitat patch; however, a portion of bare ground is required to sustain a population (Section 3.5).

3.4 Ecological role

Adult skippers are pollinators and require nectar to sustain themselves. They visit a wide variety of native and non-native flowers and potentially pollinate these flowers. Skippers are also prey items at all life stages, and may be consumed by birds and arthropod predators, such as dragonflies.

3.5 Limiting factors

Limiting factors are generally not human-induced and include characteristics that make the species less likely to respond to recovery/conservation efforts. For the oregonia subspecies, these factors include the following.

• Vulnerability to weather patterns. The overall seasonal weather pattern affects the abundance and distribution of skippers at all life stages. For example, the previous year’s weather (for example, average temperature, average rainfall, frost) affects the timing of host plant growth, senescence, and abundance, and directly affects the larval health and abundance of the next generation. Humidity and extreme winter temperatures affect larval survival (McCabe 1979, 1981). Temperature and rainfall affect the species’ growth. All these factors contribute to the degree-days and subsequent emergence of the next year’s generation
• Larval host plant longevity and senescence. The oregonia subspecies larvae require host plant(s) for their development (Section 3.3.2). Although the host plant(s) are not confirmed in the province, the host’s phenology, abundance, distribution, and its ability to colonize new areas within a habitat patch will contribute to the maintenance of a population within that patch. Larvae require healthy host plants within which to construct their larval nests. This limiting factor is compounded by increased natural succession (Section 4.2, Threat 7.3) and competition from non-native plants (Section 4.2, Threat 8.1)
• Adult nectar plant longevity and senescence. Adult skippers require a constant supply of nectar to produce eggs and sperm, and to sustain themselves and the resident population over the flight season. In the beginning of the flight season (late July), a greater number of flowering plants are available for nectar. The skipper likely nectars on other flowering plants throughout their flight season; however, fewer flowering plants remain in the hot, dry, and exposed skipper habitats late in the season. During surveys in 2011 and 2012, American searocket and hairy gumweed (Grindelia hirsutula) were the only two flowering plants used as nectar sources by the subspecies at Cordova Spit (population B, Figure 3 of part 2); however, these observations were in late August, when other flowering plants had senesced. In addition, the corolla of the flower must be shallow enough to allow the skipper’s proboscis to reach the nectar, and this physiological trait may limit the plant species the skipper is able to forage upon
• Poor dispersal ability. The oregonia subspecies, like many skippers, is not likely to disperse far from the habitat where it emerged. Adults are small, with a small wing to body ratio and females are heavy with eggs. Larvae are also not highly mobile. The Dakota Skipper^{Footnote P2.3} does not disperse far, with estimated average adult movements of approximately 300 m over a 3 to 7-day period, and is unlikely to disperse 1 km across its non-native prairie habitat (Dana 1991; Cochrane and Delphey 2002). These same dispersal limitations may be applicable to the oregonia subspecies
• Predators. The oregonia subspecies has predators and intraspecific competition; however, these limiting factors are likely similar to those of Dakota Skipper, which are considered low (Dana 1991; Royer and Marrone 1992; COSEWIC 2014)
• Disease. Disease in the oregonia subspecies is unknown; however, in the related Dakota Skipper, disease is considered infrequent (Dana 1991). Under humid conditions, bacteria are known to cause mortality in Hesperia larvae (MacNeill 1964); however, larvae also have natural protection mechanisms against excess moisture (MacNeill 1964)
• Bare ground. The spatial area and distribution of bare ground will change within a habitat patch over time; however, this requirement is needed to sustain a population. The spatial area of bare ground is unknown and difficult to measure. This limiting factor is compounded by increased fire suppression (Section 4.2, Threat 7.1) and the succession of both non-native (Section 4.2, Threat 8.1) and native (Section 4.2, Threat 8.2) plants

4. Threats

Threats are defined as the proximate activities or processes that have caused, are causing, or may cause in the future the destruction, degradation, and/or impairment of the entity being assessed (population, species, community, or ecosystem) in the area of interest (global, national, or subnational) (adapted from Salafsky et al. 2008). For purposes of threat assessment, only present and future threats are considered.^{Footnote P2.4} Threats were assessed for extant populations and historical populations with remaining suitable habitat.

For the most part, threats are related to human activities, but they can also be natural. The impact of human activity may be direct (for example, destruction of habitat) or indirect (for example, introduction of invasive species). Effects of natural phenomena (for example, fire, flooding) may be especially important when the species is concentrated in one location or has few occurrences, which may be a result of human activity (Master et al. 2012). As such, natural phenomena are included in the definition of a threat, though these should be considered cautiously. These stochastic events should only be considered a threat if a species or habitat is damaged from other threats and has lost its resilience. In such cases, the effect on the population would be disproportionately large compared to the effect experienced historically (Salafsky et al. 2008).

The primary threat to the oregonia subspecies is the potential for the application of an aerial pesticide containing the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) to control the introduction and spread of non-native Gypsy Moth. Secondary threats include the encroachment of both non-native and native plants by natural succession (partially the result of ecosystem modifications related to ongoing fire suppression programs throughout the subspecies’ range) and recreational activities at some habitats (for example, trampling of host and habitat plants from dog walking and hiking). The slow progression of habitat loss related to climate change (for example, storms, flooding, or droughts) is ongoing and particularly evident at Cordova Spit (population B, Figure 3 of part 2).

4.1 Threat assessment

The threat classification below is based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature–Conservation Measures Partnership (IUCN–CMP) unified threats classification system and is consistent with methods used by the B.C. Conservation Data Centre. For a detailed description of the threat classification system, see the Open Standards website (Open Standards 2014). Threats may be observed, inferred, or projected to occur in the near term. Threats are characterized here in terms of scope, severity, and timing. Threat “impact” is calculated from scope and severity. For information on how the values are assigned, see Master et al. (2012) and table footnotes for details. Threats for the oregonia subspecies were assessed for the entire province (Table 3 of part 2) and the threat impact was High.

Note: A description of the threats included in this table are found in Section 4.2.

^a Threat numbers are provided for Level 1 threats (that is, whole numbers) and Level 2 threats (that is, numbers with decimals).

^b Impact – The degree to which a species is observed, inferred, or suspected to be directly or indirectly threatened in the area of interest. The impact of each threat is based on severity and scope rating and considers only present and future threats. Threat impact reflects a reduction of a species population. The median rate of population reduction for each combination of scope and severity corresponds to the following classes of threat impact: Very high (75% declines), High (40%), Medium (15%), and Low (3%). Unknown: used when impact cannot be determined (for example, if values for either scope or severity are unknown); Not Calculated: impact not calculated as threat is outside the assessment time (for example, timing is insignificant/negligible [past threat] or low [possible threat in long term]); Negligible: when scope or severity is negligible; Not a Threat: when severity is scored as neutral or potential benefit.

^c Scope – Proportion of the species that can reasonably be expected to be affected by the threat within 10 years. Usually measured as a proportion of the species’ population in the area of interest. (Pervasive = 71 to 100%; Large = 31 to 70%; Restricted = 11 to 30%; Small = 1 to 10%; Negligible  1%).

^d Severity – Within the scope, the level of damage to the species from the threat that can reasonably be expected to be affected by the threat within a 10-year or 3-generation time frame. For this species a 10-year time frame was used. Usually measured as the degree of reduction of the species’ population. (Extreme = 71 to 100%; Serious = 31 to 70%; Moderate = 11 to 30%; Slight = 1 to 10%; Negligible  1%; Neutral or Potential Benefit ≥ 0%).

^e Timing – High = continuing; Moderate = only in the future (could happen in the short term [ 10 years or 3 generations]) or now suspended (could come back in the short term); Low = only in the future (could happen in the long term) or now suspended (could come back in the long term); Insignificant/Negligible = only in the past and unlikely to return, or no direct effect but limiting.

^f Refer to Table 2 of part 2 for a description of the populations; Figure 3 of part 2 shows the distribution of these populations.

^g Historical populations with remaining suitable habitat refers to populations F, G, and H.

4.2 Description of threats

Threats to the oregonia subspecies populations are well documented at some habitats, although at other habitats the threats remain unclear. The land ownership and activities at that land greatly influence the type of threat to the skipper and its associated habitat.

The overall province-wide threat impact for this subspecies is High.^{Footnote P2.5} The threats assessment in this recovery plan is slightly different from the first assessment prepared for the COSEWIC (2013) status report, although the overall threats impact remains unchanged. It considers threats at the one new population documented since the COSEWIC (2013) status assessment; additional local knowledge of each population; the linkages between causal versus proximal threats that are known for each population; the unknown severity, and threats to historical populations if potentially suitable habitat remains at the property.

The overall threat impact considers the cumulative impact of multiple threats (Table 3 of part 2). The primary threat to the oregonia subspecies populations is the potential spraying of pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) to control Gypsy Moth (Threat 9.1). Other lower impact threats include recreational activities (Threat 6.1), and succession of non-native (Threat 8.1) and native (Threat 8.2) plants in the open habitats in which the skipper lives. Details are discussed below under the Threat Level 1 headings. Threats with negligible impacts or impacts not calculated are also described because of the uncertain applicability to the oregonia subspecies and its habitat.

Threat 1. Residential and commercial development (not calculated)

1.1 Housing and urban areas and 1.2 Commercial and industrial areas (not calculated)

Much of the Canadian range of the oregonia subspecies overlaps with some of the most desirable real estate in the province. Multiple landowners and private properties are adjacent to the oregonia subspecies populations within urban areas and most of these areas are subject to future land development. Land development involves clearing land, which subsequently removes larval host plants, adult nectar sources, and pupation sites, and will result in unsuitable habitats for the oregonia subspecies.

Unsurveyed and unoccupied oregonia subspecies’ habitats, and natural areas that contain extant and historical populations for the species, are within the local government jurisdictions of Greater Victoria (13 municipalities), Nanaimo, and Duncan. Most of the large, intact natural habitats within the range of the oregonia subspecies are owned by local governments, private landowners or timber companies and future (within the next 25 years) urban planning projections designate many of these areas as future housing, commercial and recreational development. The uncertainty surrounding land use and frequently changing land ownership increases the potential threat of habitat conversion. This threat applies to areas surrounding Camas Hill (population A; see Figure 3 of part 2 for the location of all historical and extant populations) and private land portions of Goldstream (population C). Camas Hill has a conservation covenant protecting the oregonia subspecies as well as other Garry oak and associated ecosystems values; however, habitats surrounding this property may also have populations of the oregonia subspecies and are potentially at risk of urban development.

1.3 Tourism and recreational areas (not calculated)

The demand for tourism and recreational development on southern Vancouver Island is projected to increase within the next decade. For example, camping facilities have expanded at Island View Beach Regional Park near Cordova Spit (population B), and expansion is planned at Goldstream (population C) Provincial Park. Expansion of campgrounds and recreational areas, as well as trail building, destroys habitat and compounds other threats, such as road building to access these areas (Threat 4.1) and the spread of non-native plants (Threat 8.1). Both roads and trails are corridors that can facilitate the spread of introduced species into natural habitats; plant seeds attach to car tires and become dislodged at new sites (Trombulak and Frissell 2000), or plant seeds attached to hiking boots can drop and spread throughout a natural area.

Threat 4. Transportation and service corridors (not a threat)

4.1 Roads and railroads (not a threat)

Skippers, like many butterflies, may be susceptible to road mortality, especially along roadways with higher speeds (Mckenna et al. 2001). They will often sit in sunny spots on roadways, or they will use mud puddles for water and salt uptake.

The development, widening, or expansion of roadways is not likely to affect the five extant oregonia subspecies populations. A gated access road runs through a portion of Cordova Spit (population B), but there are no plans for expansion. Portions of habitat at Goldstream (population C) are within a railroad right-of-way, although the population likely spans other areas of unsurveyed surrounding habitat. No future expansion is currently planned; however, maintenance of the right-of-way is likely ongoing. Road expansion may occur during campsite expansion at Goldstream (population C) (Threat 1.3), although the scope and timing are unknown.

Threat 5. Biological resource use (not in timeframe)

5.2 Gathering terrestrial plants (not in time frame)

The sparsely vegetated ecosystems at Cordova Spit (B) are of significance to First Nations, and culturally significant plants grow throughout the habitat. Impacts from gathering (for example, picking plants, walking on plants, or digging plants) are negligible because the plants gathered would not likely be the same ones consumed by the oregonia subspecies larvae and, if these same plants were gathered, the severity is likely negligible.

Threat 6. Human intrusions and disturbance (low impact)

6.1 Recreational activities (low impact)

Adult emergence of the oregonia subspecies coincides with the high season of recreational activity at Cordova Spit (population B), Goldstream (population C), and Mount Manuel Quimper (population D). Although populations of the oregonia subspecies have persisted at these habitats for many generations, recreational activities have increased over the past decade. At Cordova Spit, off-leash dog walking within the oregonia subspecies habitat affects host-plant health, larval nests, perching, and resting sites, as off-leash dogs may dig, defecate, and urinate within these areas. At other recreational sites, campfires and other day-use activities, such as hiking, mountain biking within some areas, and off-leash dog walking, are detrimental to habitats. Recreational hiking/walking also facilitates the spread of non-native plant seeds (Threat 8.1). It is unknown what recreational impacts threatened the historical populations from Rithet’s Bog (population F), Beaver Lake (population G), and Mount Douglas (population H).

Threat 7. Natural system modifications (low impact)

7.3 Other ecosystem modifications (low impact)

Historically, low-intensity, frequent fires played an important role in the maintenance of Garry oak ecosystems (Daubenmire 1968; Agee 1993; McPherson 1997 as read in Fuchs 2000). Before European contact, fires originated from lightning and First Nations cultural burning practices (see Fuchs [2000] for a literature review). Garry oak and associated ecosystem habitats are extremely dry during the summer months, and fire was previously one of the primary disturbance factors that maintained the open habitat and host plants needed for the oregonia subspecies. Today, accidental fires may occur at some of these sites where high recreational use takes place.

Natural succession of native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous vegetation is ongoing at the habitats of all extant oregonia subspecies populations (A, B, C, D, and E), as well as historical populations with suitable habitat remaining (F, G, and H). Ongoing fire suppression programs increase the rate of natural succession within suitable habitats (McCoy 2006) and make these areas less suitable for the skipper. The rate of habitat creation is likely not as fast as habitat loss related to natural succession. Potential larval host plants, adult nectar sources, and adult activity require open habitat with abundant light and moisture (see Pojar and McKinnon 1994 for associated habitat information on potential host plants). Natural plant succession results in competition for resources (light, nutrients), and ultimately displace the larval and nectar hosts needed to sustain an oregonia subspecies population.

Threat 8. Invasive and other problematic species and genes (low impact)

8.1 Invasive non-native/alien species (low impact)

Non-native plants are present at all extant population habitats. Invasive plant species are known to change soil structure, enabling other plants to grow, leading to vegetation stabilization and the subsequent decline in number and connectivity between habitats available to the oregonia subspecies. They also occupy greater ground cover, reducing the area of bare patches available to adult skippers. Overall, sparsely vegetated plant communities are susceptible to the colonization of invasive plants.

English ivy (Hedera helix), English holly (Ilex aquifolium), and Himalayan blackberry (Rubus discolor) are widespread invasive plants within native ecosystems on southern Vancouver Island, and are known to displace native vegetation. Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius), gorse (Ulex europaeus), and laurel-leaved daphne (Daphne laureola) are also likely to invade disturbed areas. Scotch broom is associated with suppressed native species richness (Rook 2011), grows quickly, and can fix nitrogen in low fertility, sandy soils (Parker 2002; Haubensak and Parker 2004; Huenneke et al. 1990). Three of the oregonia subspecies population habitats contain large patches of Scotch Broom (B, C, and D).

Numerous introduced grasses such as European beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria), sweet vernalgrass (Anthoxanthum odoratum), soft brome (Bromus hordeaceus), cheatgrass (B. tectorum), orchard grass (Dactylis glomerata), common velvet-grass (Holcus lanatus), and rattail fescue (Vulpia myuros) are also present within the sparsely vegetated and Garry oak ecosystems. These invasive plants are known from the oregonia subspecies sites, although the scope and severity of their impacts have not been studied.

Herbivory by introduced mammals such as European Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is present at Cordova Spit (population B) (Gelling, pers. comm., 2016), although it is likely a minor threat. Parasitism by tachinid flies may be a potential threat; these flies were introduced to control Gypsy Moth (Tothill 1913).

Threat 9. Pollution (high impact)

9.3 Agricultural and forestry effluents (high impact)

Southern Vancouver Island and the Canadian range of the oregonia subspecies is within the range of potential introduction of European Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar dispar) and Asian Gypsy Moth (Lymantria dispar asiatica). These moths are brought to British Columbia through numerous vectors, including transport on recreational vehicles, shipping containers, and commercial trucks. The arrival and detection of this invasive pest varies yearly and is a challenge to predict. Pheromone traps to detect Gypsy Moths are set up in systematic grids throughout the area.

Should Gypsy Moths be detected in high numbers, ground and aerial spraying of a pesticide that contains Btk may occur. This naturally occurring pathogenic bacterium is a component of a commercial pesticide used to control defoliating caterpillars. The bacterium also affects most non-target butterfly and moth larvae. The use of Btk for Gypsy Moth control occurs in early April to early May, which coincides with the oregonia subspecies larval activity.

Aerial spray for Gypsy Moth has occurred close to oregonia subspecies sites in the last 5 years; all extant sites and historical sites with suitable habitat remaining are within potential future spray zones. Non-aerial treatment options are a possibility, including ground spray from truck tanks or backpack sprayers operated by individual personnel. These options may successfully eradicate the pest while having minimal impact on the oregonia subspecies. It is unlikely that Gypsy Moth control would be required simultaneously throughout all populations of the oregonia subspecies.

The site at Cordova Spit (population B) is along a prominent point of entry for Gypsy Moth, particularly because adjacent to the site is a private campground, which receives visitors from across North America. Recreational vehicles such as camper vans, as well as firewood, canoes, or equipment that has sat idle since the previous fall, are favourable places for adult Gypsy Moths to oviposit eggs. These items are also vectors known to transport egg masses, especially from areas of high Gypsy Moth populations within eastern Canada. This may result in an accidental introduction of Gypsy Moth to the region.

The threat of neonicotinoid insecticides on nectar-feeding butterflies and moths needs further research. Neonicotinoids can accumulate in the pollen and nectar of treated plants, and when consumed affects the central nervous system of an insect and can be lethal. Neonicotinoids can accumulate in the environment. The insecticide remains within plant tissue roots and stems and does not rot or break down with the senescence of the plant. For example, in the agricultural sector, the continued use of neonicotinoid-treated seeds in field crops can accumulate within the plant matter and environment over time. Neonicotinoid use in the agricultural sector is not currently applicable to the oregonia subspecies; however, the use of neonicotinoids within the ornamental tree and shrub nursery sector is ongoing. This threat is applicable at private land habitats or habitats where restoration actions involve planting vegetation. No central registration system is in place for neonicotinoid-treated ornamental tree and shrub plants or any indication of where these plants are ultimately planted. Information on this threat, and to what extent it is applicable to the oregonia subspecies, needs further research.

Threat 10. Geological events (low impact)

10.2 Earthquakes/tsunamis (low impact)

The habitat at Cordova Spit (population B) is less than 2 m above sea level. In the event of a tsunami, this property would be submerged. The timing of this event is unknown.

Threat 11. Climate change and severe weather (low impact)

11.1 Habitat shifting and alteration (not calculated)

Within the Pacific Maritime Ecozone, mean annual temperatures increased by 1.7°C from 1960 to 2006 (Coristine and Kerr 2011). By 2050, mean annual temperatures are expected to increase by approximately 2 to 3°C (Hebda 1997). Climate change affects the flowering time, bloom period, and senescence of host and nectar plants at all of the oregonia subspecies populations. Premature host and nectar plant senescence affects larval survival by changing the synchrony between plant longevity and fall larval diapause. The severity is unknown, and the timing is likely outside of the 10-year assessment period.

11.2 Droughts (not calculated)

The threat of drought applies to populations A–H. Increased summer droughts (Mote and Salathe 2010) have the potential to affect the open, sparsely vegetated habitats of southern Vancouver Island, which experience hot and dry summers. Changes to rainfall patterns over the past decade, as well as a decline in snowpack and subsequent freshet, has led to a greater demand on the water resources within these areas. Conversely, an anticipated increase in winter precipitation is projected for coastal areas such as east Vancouver Island. A recent analysis of global observations from 1925 to 1999 showed that precipitation increased by 6.2 mm per decade in the latitude band of 50 to 70° N, which includes almost all of British Columbia (Zhang et al. 2007). More specifically on southeastern Vancouver Island, the projected change in precipitation by the middle of the 21^st century (2041 to 2071), relative to historical records (1961 to 1990), models a 10 to 25% increase for average winter conditions (December to February) and a 0 to 10% decrease for average summer conditions (June to August) (Rodenhuis 2009).

11.4 Storms and flooding (low impact)

The greater frequency and severity of winter storms (Page 2010) affects the shoreline habitat at Cordova Spit (population B). The cumulative effects of wave wash, scouring, water runoff from terrestrial habitats and impacts from woody debris washing ashore, all contribute to a potential decline in the oregonia subspecies habitat. The effects of an increase in the severity, frequency, and seasonality of storms and flooding to the oregonia subspecies habitat needs further study and long-term monitoring. All other populations are not close to shoreline habitats.

5. Recovery goal and objectives

5.1 Recovery (population and distribution) goal

The recovery (population and distribution) goal is to maintain the abundance (as represented by area of occupancy) and distribution of all extant oregonia subspecies populations within British Columbia, including any additional populations that may be identified in the future.

5.2 Rationale for the recovery (population and distribution) goal

The oregonia subspecies is endemic to the west coast of North America. Within Canada, 18 populations occur on southern Vancouver Island: 5 extant populations (A, B, C, D, and E); and 13 historical populations, with 3 of these having potentially suitable habitat remaining (F, G, and H).

Suitable habitat for the oregonia subspecies comprises sparsely vegetated coastal sand ecosystems, including sand and gravel spits and scrub oak ecosystems, both of which are highly threatened ecosystems in Canada. The low number of extant populations, limited geographic range, high threats, and decline in habitat quality also led to its assessment as Endangered^{Footnote P2.6} in Canada (COSEWIC 2013). The threshold criteria that led to this assessment include estimated extent of occurrence of less than 5000 km² and an estimated index of area of occupancy less than 500 km², the species being present at fewer or equal to five locations,^{Footnote P2.7} and a continued decline in the area, extent, and/or quality of habitat.

The oregonia subspecies has likely always been naturally rare because its habitat, coastal sand and Garry oak ecosystems, is also historically rare in Canada. Currently, the oregonia subspecies has a small estimated extent of occurrence (66 km² for extant sites; 250 km², including populations F, G, and H) and a small index of area occupancy (20 km²; less than 32 km², including populations F, G, and H). Even if the historical condition (distribution and abundance) could be achieved, this subspecies would likely continue to be assessed as Endangered in Canada.

The recovery goal is proposed to ensure the persistence of the oregonia subspecies in British Columbia, and includes maintaining any additional populations that may be recorded. Population information for the oregonia subspecies is incomplete at all habitats and specific population targets cannot currently be quantified. Consequently, no information is available to measure abundance trends or to complete a minimum population viability analysis. Lifespan, dispersal, and recolonization capabilities are unknown, and detailed habitat requirements are unclear. A lack of natural history information, including the larval host plant(s) for the oregonia subspecies, precludes a recovery goal to increase the number of populations through translocation or other techniques at historical population locations, and is not currently recommended. If additional naturally occurring populations are recorded, these will be included in recovery planning. Fulfilling knowledge gaps will provide important information to help maintain the present number of extant populations and allow future quantification of the recovery goal. In the interim, conserving the existing habitat quantity and quality will serve as a surrogate for maintaining population abundance.

5.3 Recovery objectives

The recovery objectives for the oregonia subspecies are:

1. to secure protection ^{Footnote p2.8} for the extant populations so that there is no loss or degradation of occupied habitat
2. to confirm the distribution of this subspecies within its range in British Columbia
3. to assess the extent of threats to each of the extant populations and reduce their impacts; and
4. to address knowledge gaps, such as habitat requirements, biological attributes, life history, and ecological factors

6. Approaches to meet objectives

6.1 Actions already completed or underway

The following actions have been categorized by the action groups of the B.C. Conservation Framework (B.C. Ministry of Environment 2009). Status of the action group for this species is given in parentheses.

Compile Status Report (complete)

• COSEWIC report completed (COSEWIC 2013)

Send to COSEWIC (complete)

• The oregonia subspecies assessed as Endangered (COSEWIC 2013)

Planning (complete)

• British Columbia Recovery Plan completed (this document, 2017)

Inventory (in progress)

• Inventory to 2012 is summarized in the COSEWIC (2013) status report. Areas targeted for searches in 2012 include: Sooke Hills Wilderness Regional Park Reserve (including Mount Manuel Quimper); Cordova Spit (including Island View Beach Regional Park); Central Saanich Park and Tsawout First Nations properties); Nanaimo River Road (outside of Nanaimo), private property owned by TimberWest; Mount Baldy (near Shawnigan Lake); Spectacle Lake and surrounding areas; Camas Hill (population A), private property and Mill Hill Capital Regional District Park (Heron, pers. data)
• Inventory by Gelling (2013 to 2014) occurred at Cordova Spit, Sooke Hills Wilderness Regional Park Reserve, Uplands Park (population H), and in the Nanaimo Rivers Road area (same areas as above)
• Non-targeted and opportunistic searches have occurred simultaneously during surveys for other butterflies in the greater Victoria area. The Victoria Natural History Society has completed butterfly counts monthly throughout this area for at least 20 years. During this time, the oregonia subspecies has only been recorded along a railway right-of-way near Goldstream (population C) and confirmed at Cordova Spit (population B). The count is conducted by volunteers, with each person covering a spatial area of habitat in the greater Victoria area
• Surveys in greater Victoria area parks, including Beacon Hill, Moss Rock, Bamfield, Summit, and Topaz (Page et al. 2010)
• Inventories during academic research projects that have submitted their butterfly records to the Conservation Data Centre have not recorded the oregonia subspecies (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016)

Habitat protection and private land stewardship (in progress)

• Existing mechanisms that could potentially protect the oregonia subspecies habitat are listed in Table 4 of part 2
• Portions of the habitat at Goldstream (population C) are protected under the provincial Parks Act and Protected Areas of British Columbia Act (Province of British Columbia 2000)
• Camas Hill (population A) is on private land owned by an active steward of the property, and with an environmental covenant registered on title
• Cordova Spit (population B) spans properties owned and managed by three separate landowners: Tsawout First Nation, Central Saanich municipal government, and Capital Regional District (Island View Beach Regional Park). The Cordova Shore Conservation Strategy (Page 2010) is a collaborative document developed in partnership with these three landowners, and outlines actions to restore, recover, and protect ecosystem values within this area, including those important for the oregonia subspecies
• For portions of the habitat at Cordova Spit (population B), the Tsawout First Nation has developed the Land Code (Tsawout First Nation 2006), which identifies important natural features and conservation values within the Tsawout Indian Reserve 2, including the spit where the oregonia subspecies occurs. Details on the protection policies and community plans for the reserve are outlined in the Comprehensive Community Plan (Tsawout First Nation 2010), as well as summarized in the Cordova Shore Conservation Strategy (Page 2010). These conservation plans assist in mitigating impacts from threats, such as land development, recreational development, and invasive species
• Mount Manuel Quimper (population D) is within Sooke Hills Capital Regional District Park Reserve, and owned by Capital Regional District. The park is managed for natural ecological values
• Much of the low-elevation, natural habitat on southeastern Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands that is suitable for the oregonia subspecies is privately owned by individual landowners (for example, farms or rural properties), private forest companies (for example, for timber production), and development companies (for example, with future plans for urban housing or industrial real estate use), or is within local government ownership (for example, watersheds and natural areas, or future urban/commercial real estate development)
• Local government bylaws that protect environmental values on private lands differ between local governments. Currently, no bylaws specifically protect the oregonia subspecies or butterflies; however, numerous local governments recognize the importance of rare ecosystems and use Sensitive Ecosystem Inventory information (Ward et al. 1998) to guide and limit the type of development within certain areas. Depending on the jurisdiction, development permit applications may require environmental assessments that include wildlife values and consider impacts to natural habitats as part of the approval process. For example, the District of Central Saanich Official Community Plan includes provisions to protect sensitive environmental areas within several development permit areas, including coastal sand spits and inland bluff habitats (Page 2010). Cordova Spit (population B), including Island View Beach Regional Park, are considered regionally significant by the District of Central Saanich

^a Threat numbers according to the IUCN–CMP classification (see Table 3 of part 2 for details).

6.2 Recovery action table

Recovery planning for the oregonia subspecies is concurrent with recovery planning approaches for similar species under the Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team (2017) and the South Coast Conservation Program (2016). Because of the extensive knowledge gaps for the oregonia subspecies, most of the recovery planning activities listed in Table 5 of part 2  centre on inventory, habitat information gathering, habitat mapping, and threat clarification. These activities will help prioritize areas for future surveys and inform habitat protection efforts. A combined approach to recovery also includes engaging the academic, naturalist, and stewardship community in recovery projects for the species, including inventory, natural history, and habitat information gathering.

^a Threat numbers according to the IUCN–CMP classification (see Table 3 of part 2 for details).

^b Essential: urgent and important, needs to start immediately; Necessary: important but not urgent, action can start in 2 to 5 years; or Beneficial (action is beneficial and could start at any time that was feasible).

7. Species survival and recovery habitat

Survival and recovery habitat is defined as the habitat that is necessary for the survival or recovery of the species. This is the area where the species naturally occurs or depends on directly or indirectly to carry out its life-cycle processes, or where it formerly occurred and has the potential to be reintroduced.

7.1 Biophysical description of the species’ survival/recovery habitat

Section 3.3 and Table 2 of part 2  provide a description of the known biophysical features and attributes of the species’ habitat required to support these life-cycle processes (functions). Additional work is required to fulfill habitat knowledge gaps. These knowledge gaps are provided in Table 5.

7.2 Spatial description of the species’ survival/recovery habitat

The area of survival/recovery habitat required for a species is guided by the amount of habitat needed to meet the recovery goal. Although no survival/recovery maps are included with this document, it is recommended that the location of survival/recovery habitat be spatially described to mitigate habitat threats and to facilitate the actions outlined to meet the recovery (population and distribution) goals.

8. Measuring progress

Performance measures toward meeting each of the four recovery objectives have been integrated into the Recovery Action Table in Section 6.2 (Table 5 of part 2 ). The recovery plan will be reviewed in 10 years to assess progress and to identify additional approaches or changes that may be required to achieve recovery.

The performance indicator presented below provides a way to define and measure progress toward achieving the recovery (population and distribution) goal.

• The abundance of each known extant population of the oregonia subspecies in British Columbia is maintained. The abundance at a site is measured by completing surveys/counts on specific date(s) at that site throughout the flight season, and comparing these results over time

9. Effects on other species

In addition to the oregonia subspecies, numerous additional federally and provincially listed species at risk co-occur within similar habitats, depending on the locality (B.C. Conservation Data Centre 2016). Conservation actions for the skipper will benefit plants and other invertebrates most. For example, at Cordova Spit (population B), a summary of co-occurring species was assembled as part of the Cordova Shore Conservation Strategy (see Page 2010 for additional species). Table 6 of part 2 describes the plants and arthropods that occur within the same habitat at Cordova Spit.

^a Source: B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016); Red – Includes any indigenous species or subspecies that have, or are candidates for, Extirpated, Endangered, or Threatened status in British Columbia; Blue – Any species or ecosystem that is of special concern.

^b Source: B.C. Conservation Data Centre (2016); S – subnational (provincial) ranks assigned and maintained by the Conservation Data Centre; 1=critically imperiled; 2= imperiled; 3 = special concern, vulnerable to extirpation or extinction.

^c Source: Government of Canada (2017)

At least 10 bird species at risk also occur at Cordova Spit (Page 2010). Completion of similar species lists need to be completed for the other sites inhabited by the oregonia subspecies.

Protection for oregonia subspecies habitat will benefit some of these species, although not all species at risk have been specifically identified within the extant population habitats (this is a knowledge gap). Recovery planning activities for the oregonia subspecies will be implemented with consideration for all co-occurring species at risk, such that there are no negative impacts to these species or their habitats. Conservation strategies are consistent with Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team and South Coast Conservation Program.

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Personal communications

Copley, C., Senior Collections Manager, Entomology, Royal British Columbia Museum, Victoria, BC

Costanzo, B., Senior Vegetation Specialist, B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, Victoria, BC

Gelling, L., Conservation Data Centre, B.C. Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, Victoria, BC

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