Monarch Butterfly Population Increases 64%, Study Finds
Why this is here: The monarch butterfly population’s 64% increase provides a rare example of a species halting its decline through focused conservation work involving local communities and government agencies.
Eastern monarch butterfly populations increased by 64%, according to new reports from WWF-Mexico. The butterflies migrate nearly 3,000 miles each year to a forest reserve in Mexico. Their numbers declined by over 80% since the 1990s due to deforestation, milkweed loss, and pesticide use.
WWF-Mexico’s reports also show a reduction in forest degradation within the butterflies’ winter habitat. Experts attribute the positive trend to ongoing conservation efforts and collaboration with local communities. Tierra Curry of the Center for Biological Diversity stated monarchs are “spectacular and irreplaceable.”
Monarch butterflies are a keystone species. Declining populations signal broader issues impacting pollinators and ecosystems. Karen Oberhauser, a monarch expert, noted the population has stopped declining and conservation efforts can be effective.