Butterflies Around St Arnaud (Victoria)

A one-page community fact sheet highlighting the history, notable species, and conservation context of butterflies found in and around St Arnaud, Victoria. The region’s box–ironbark woodlands, gardens, and creeklines support both resident and migratory species.

Representative Butterfly Species

[Image: Caper White Butterfly – Belenois java]Caption: Migratory Caper White, periodically seen in large numbers across central Victoria.Credit: Australian Museum / ButterflyHouse (educational use).

[Image: Monarch (Wanderer) Butterfly – Danaus plexippus]Caption: Monarch butterfly commonly observed in gardens where milkweed is present.Credit: Australian Museum (educational use).

[Image: Eltham Copper Butterfly – Paralucia pyrodiscus lucida]Caption: Victorian endemic once thought extinct, now a flagship conservation species.Credit: Zoos Victoria (educational use).

[Image: Box–Ironbark Woodland Habitat]Caption: Typical woodland habitat around St Arnaud supporting nectar and host plants.Credit: Parks Victoria (educational use).

Historical Overview

Prior to European settlement, butterfly diversity around St Arnaud closely reflected intact woodland and grassland ecosystems. Clearing for mining and agriculture fragmented these habitats, placing pressure on specialist species. Despite this, local observation and backyard breeding have played a role in maintaining awareness and appreciation of butterflies in the district.

Key Species

• Caper White (Belenois java): A highly visible migratory species.• Monarch / Wanderer (Danaus plexippus): Garden-associated and easily recognised.• Blues and Coppers: Small, often overlooked species sensitive to habitat loss.

Extinct and Threatened (Regional Context)

Victoria has recorded several regionally extinct butterflies, including the Western Bright-eyed Brown and Orange Ringlet. Others, such as the Eltham Copper Butterfly, demonstrate how remnant habitats can preserve species once thought lost.

Why They Matter

Butterflies are indicators of environmental health. Protecting native vegetation, host plants, and flowering corridors around St Arnaud helps conserve biodiversity and supports pollination.

References

Victorian Department of Sustainability and Environment (2009). Advisory List of Threatened Invertebrate Fauna in Victoria.Zoos Victoria – Butterfly species profiles.Australian Museum – Butterfly information pages.ABC News – St Arnaud community butterfly observations.