Late scientist’s work culminates in new butterfly guide

From the cover of “Butterflies of Alaska: A Field Guide” by Kenelm W. Philip and Clifford D. Ferris. (Image courtesy of UAF)
From the cover of “Butterflies of Alaska: A Field Guide” by Kenelm W. Philip and Clifford D. Ferris. (Image courtesy of UAF)

A new butterfly guide is out. It identifies thousands of species across Alaska, eastern Russia and western Canada. The guide also reflects the collaborative work of hundreds of scientists and amateur collectors.

Ken Philip was a world renowned Fairbanks butterfly expert, or lepidopterist, who died almost two years ago. He left behind a collection totaling more than 100,000 specimens. He also left unrealized his dream of producing a comprehensive guide to Alaska’s butterflies and moths. Derek Sikes, a researcher and curator of University of Alaska’s Museum of the North, says friends and colleagues have stepped in to realize Philip’s dream. He says that collaborative approach is in keeping with the cadre of volunteers Philip developed in some 50 years of research.

“He had a team of between 400 to 600 people called the Alaska Lepidopterist Survey, and over the decades Ken was working, they’d send in specimens from all around the state,” Sikes said.

Sikes says the team is still active, and Philip’s family has established an endowment to support further research. It also helped fund the new guide. He says guides are invaluable tools for amateurs and scientists alike, especially as conditions in the north shift.

“We have this historical data, and now we can continue to monitor these beautiful creatures into the future and see how they change… hopefully not for the worse — but, at least, we’ll be able to pay attention to them,” Sike said.

Sikes says while the bulk of Philip’s collection is headed to the Smithsonian Institution, the guide and UAF funded awards for research ensure Philip’s legacy continues.

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