The frosted elfin is a rare butterfly whose populations are declining in eastern North America. This species is found in xeric open habitats that are maintained by disturbance. Gene Albanese, who recently completed his Master’s thesis at the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, studied the breeding ecology of this unique butterfly and found that they prefer dense patches of Wild Indigo in partially open glades.

Spring Salamanders (Gyrinophilus porphyriticus) are common along riparian streams in western Maine. Amphibians are excellent candidates to study the effects of riparian timber management because they are sensitive to forest management, have high diversity in riparian areas, and are among the most abundant vertebrates in temperate forests. 

Florida Grasshopper Sparrows (Ammodramus savannarum floridanus) are rare grasslands birds found only in central Florida. Because of major habitat loss and degradation, this taxon is now listed as federally endangered.