For years, the plight of Monarch butterflies and their decreasing number has been well recorded. Just last year, it was noted that a mere 250 million monarchs migrated to Michoacán, Mexico - down from almost one billion. In California, only 3,800 Monarchs were recorded in Santa Cruz - a far cry from previous numbers that reached as high as 170,000.
The blame for the declining number of Monarchs mostly fell on the lack of native milkweed, where females exclusively lay their eggs. Climate change and parasites were also thrown out there to explain the lower numbers of these butterflies, especially females.
Yesterday, Reuters reported that the number of Monarchs in Mexico has actually increased by 109%, covering about ten acres of forest. While it is a good sign, scientists point out that it doesn't mean that the trouble is over for these butterflies. Along with the shrinking numbers of milkweed, de-forestation in Mexico and unusual weather patterns in Texas and the south also contribute to the troubles.
Is there something we can do to help keep these beautiful creatures around for future generations? We may not be able to control the weather, but we can do more to conserve the forest, and can even create "monarch waystations" in our own gardens. The University of Kansas' Monarch Watch has some great info on how to help take care of these creatures, along with educational information for all ages.
Let's hope that the increasing numbers reported this year will continue, and in the meantime, think about keeping around some of the natural plants in your yard - you never know how it might affect the environment by getting rid of it.
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