Karner Blue Meadow State Natural Area

This 40-acre property provides dry, sandy, prairie habitat for a large population of the federally endangered Karner Blue Butterfly. Wild lupine, the only plant the butterfly’s larvae feed on, grows here in abundance. Other flowering prairie plants, such as rough blazing- star, black-eyed Susan, and New Jersey tea, supply nectar for adult Karner blues. The tiny butterfly, with a wingspan of only one inch, produces two adult generations each year, each living only about a week. Typically, early June and the end of July are the best times to see this beautiful butterfly.

Directions: From just north of Wild Rose, go east on Cty A three miles, then south on 22nd Avenue for .5 mile to the parking area.

Gazetteer: Page 53, C-7 (prior to 10th edition). | Page 70, D-1 (10th edition).

Phone: 920/787-4686 (Wautoma WDNR).

Web site: WDNR Karner Blue Meadow State Natural Area

Signature Species: Karner Blue Butterfly.

Rare Species: Yellow-billed Cuckoo.

Seasonality: Open all year.

Parking: Parking area on SE corner of site.

Nearest Food & Lodging: Wild Rose and Wautoma.