'Fragile' Monarch butterfly could be protected under Endangered Species Act

NEW YORK (PIX11) – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing the Monarch Butterly be protected under The Endangered Species Act.

The agency announced its decision on Tuesday. 

“The iconic monarch butterfly is cherished across North America, captivating children and adults throughout its fascinating lifecycle. Despite its fragility, it is remarkably resilient, like many things in nature, when we just give them a chance,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams. “Science shows that the monarch needs that chance, and this proposed listing invites and builds on unprecedented public participation in shaping monarch conservation efforts. Providing monarchs with enough milkweed and nectar plants, even in small areas, can help put them on the road to recovery. Working together, we can help make this extraordinary species a legacy for our children and generations to come.”

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

The monarch butterfly, commonly found in North America, is distinctive for its orange color and black-and-white wings. Scientists and conservationists say monarch numbers are dwindling.

In the 1980s, over 4.5 million western monarchs flocked to coastal California to overwinter. In the mid-1990s, an estimated 380 million eastern monarchs made the journey to Mexico to overwinter, completing one of the longest insect migrations in the world. According to officials, the eastern migratory population is estimated to have declined by approximately 80% today. 

Environmentalists believe monarch populations are shrinking due to warmer temperatures caused by climate change. Herbicides have also hindered the growth of milkweed, the primary food source for monarch caterpillars.

Although conservation efforts are already in place, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said more protection is needed to ensure species conservation for future generations. 

The official Wildlife Service proposes critical habitat for monarchs at overwintering sites in coastal California, covering 4,395 acres. This habitat is vital for monarchs during winter and supports their preparation for spring breeding. 

If the butterflies are added to the threatened species list by the end of next year following an extensive public comment period, they will receive extensive protection from species the Wildlife Service lists as endangered or threatened. Under the act, importing, exporting, possessing, transporting, or killing an endangered species is illegal. 

For more information on saving the monarch, click here. 

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.