A Monarch Butterfly Population Doubles

For people who enjoy nature, the eastern monarch butterfly population was able to double over the past year. A survey from the World Wildlife Fund and Mexico’s National Commission of Protected Natural Areas was able to discover that the butterflies' overwintering sites were able to increase from 2.22 acres to 4.42 acres.

This serves as a sign that the monarch numbers were increasing; however, constant conservation should be maintained as the population remains below historical averages. The population boost was from favorable weather conditions that allowed monarchs to reach their winter habitats, and protecting their breeding grounds played an important role in nurturing the population’s rebound.

The eastern monarch's habitat continues to be threatened by deforestation, agriculture, and global warming. To have a resilient and stable population, scientists call for ongoing conservation efforts such as planting native milkweed and protecting vital habitats along their migratory routes.

In general, while the near doubling of the eastern monarch butterfly population is a welcome trend, it serves to underscore the necessity for ongoing efforts to combat environmental threats. Ongoing collaboration among governments, organizations, and local communities is necessary to ensure the long-term survival of this migratory.