Join Us for an Illidge's Ant-Blue Butterfly Survey! We are calling all intrepid mudskippers to join Friends of Parks Queensland on Saturday, 19th of September, at Jabiru Island, Paradise Point.

Take a guided walk with our experts through the mangroves of the southern Gold Coast as we search for one of Australia's tiniest and rarest treasures - the Illidge's ant-blue butterfly. Last recorded on the Gold Coast around 1990, this mysterious mangrove-dweller relies on a fascinating partnership with ants. With sharp eyes and a bit of luck, we might just help to rediscover a butterfly that is thought to have vanished from our region. Along the way, we'll meet adorable ants with heart-shaped bottoms, experience the magic of mangroves, and likely be fooled by some fluttering lookalikes. Come and be part of a conservation story in the making!

What to expect: A relaxed, 2-hour walk and talk through beautiful mangrove habitat. No experience needed - training provided on the day!

What to bring:

Enclosed, sturdy shoes
Long pants, long-sleeved shirt
Hat and sunscreen
Water
Smartphone

Tip: Download the iNaturalist app before you come to help record your sightings. If you're new to it, don't worry - we can teach you how to use it on the day!

Please note that we'll email the exact details the Friday before.

Contact the host of Illidge's Ant-blue Butterfly Survey