Federal wildlife officials proposed on Tuesday that monarch butterflies receive protection as a threatened species. The colorful orange and black butterflies, known for their extensive migration across thousands of miles, are found throughout the United States during warmer months. Despite significant population declines, they remain common enough that, if the proposal is approved, they would become the most frequently observed species to receive federal protection.
The proposal presents a challenge for officials, who must balance the need for effective protections with potential political backlash. Implementing stringent measures could deter public efforts to create butterfly habitats, as landowners may fear legal liability associated with the presence of a protected species.
"There aren’t that many species where everyday people in their backyard can do something to help an endangered species," said a representative from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The proposal's success will largely depend on the priorities of the new administration in Washington, as previous efforts to list monarchs as endangered were postponed due to other priorities under the previous administration.
Scientists are divided over the status of North American monarchs and the factors contributing to their population declines. A team of federal biologists has reviewed numerous studies and developed models indicating that the probability of extinction for eastern monarchs over the next 60 years ranges from 56 to 74 percent, while western populations face a 99 percent probability.
The primary threats identified include habitat loss and degradation, exposure to insecticides, and climate change. Dr. Nail from the Fish and Wildlife Service emphasized that these threats act in combination rather than isolation.
Wildlife officials and conservationists are urging the public to assist in conservation efforts by planting native milkweeds and other flowers that provide essential resources for monarchs. Experts caution against using tropical milkweed, which can disrupt the butterflies' migratory patterns.
The proposal seeks public feedback regarding pesticide use and addresses land management activities that could potentially harm monarchs. While ranching and gardening activities will be protected, the proposal prohibits killing monarchs during the conversion of natural habitats without a permit.
Scientists agree that global extinction is unlikely, as existing populations of monarchs have been observed outside their native North American range. However, the potential collapse of their migratory pattern could significantly reduce their numbers.
In 2022, the International Union for Conservation of Nature briefly listed migratory monarchs as endangered before reclassifying them as vulnerable. Canada designated the species as endangered in December 2023, while Mexico has granted it "special protection" status.
A Canadian researcher visiting monarch overwintering grounds in Mexico expressed disappointment upon finding a lack of butterflies, a stark contrast to previous visits. This decline is attributed to adverse weather conditions affecting milkweed and nectar plant availability.
The cultural significance of the monarch migration is profound for Indigenous communities in Mexico, where the butterflies symbolize visiting ancestors. Losing this migration could impact deeply rooted traditions.
While some researchers believe concerns about the migration may be overstated due to natural fluctuations in insect populations, others warn of serious consequences. Nonmigratory populations may face higher disease rates, and summer data might not accurately reflect overall trends.
Public comments on the proposal will be accepted until March 12, 2025.