I first heard about the regal fritillary as an intern at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Three years later, I had to do an outreach project as part of becoming a certified Pollinator Steward. After learning about the initiative to make the regal fritillary Iowa's State Butterfly, which has been led by Nate Brockman at Reiman Gardens, I knew exactly what that outreach project would be. I welcome you to join me!

Let's get the Regal Fritillary officially recognized as Iowa's State Butterfly!

Why now? Iowa has the least state symbols of any state. Our last state symbol was recognized in 1967. Adding another symbol will boost Iowa's unique traits as part of the Union. Of the 48 states, Iowa and Michigan have no state butterflies or insects.

Why the regal fritillary? The regal fritillary is an easily recognizable butterfly with a gorgeous 4 inch wingspan. It's host plants are native prairie violets, whose ecosystem used to cover much of Iowa. Its population in Iowa is threatened, so making it a state symbol will bring the regal fritillary the attention it needs.

Tennessee has 2 state insects, a state butterfly, and a state agricultural insect, and has won several awards. As another agricultural state, Iowa relies on insects to pollinate its crops and sustain its economy. Naming a state butterfly can be the first step in recognizing the important role our pollinators fulfill.