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South Africa’s ‘Butterfly Whisperer’

South African butterfly expert Mark Williams shows one of his finds. In the case of butterflies that are nearly extinct, the act of killing the insect may surprise outsiders, but lepidopterists insist that taking a few specimens of rare species is essential, given the complications of identifying the insects accurately.

South African butterfly expert Mark Williams shows one of his finds. In the case of butterflies that are nearly extinct, the act of killing the insect may surprise outsiders, but lepidopterists insist that taking a few specimens of rare species is essential, given the complications of identifying the insects accurately.  (Hannelie Coetzee / For The Times)

Since Mark Williams founded the Lepidopterists’ Society in 1983, the hunt for endangered species has grown more urgent, with habitat loss and climate change threatening some species.

Searching for rare butterfly species

Some of the butterflies captured by Mark Williams are on display in his office. He started collecting at 5 and says he was an avid lepidopterist by 7.   (Hannelie Coetzee / For The Times)

Searching for rare butterfly species

More butterflies are displayed in Mark Williams’ office. The population of South African lepidopterists -- those who study butterflies -- has dwindled to a few dozen fanatics. Williams, who is 63, has traveled hundreds of thousands of miles with his trusty net, and has become a god in that small circle.   (Hannelie Coetzee / For The Times)

Searching for rare butterfly species

Mark Williams pages through a butterfly book he co-wrote. “I’m being called the Butterfly Whisperer,” Williams says. “I’d love to go out with that title. Mark Williams, the Butterfly Whisperer.”   (Hannelie Coetzee / For The Times)

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