Mini Blog: Who's That Pollinator?

Who's that Pollinator? Why it's the mighty Monarch Butterfly! This famous flutterer is known for their yearly migrations that span thousands of miles and many generations.  Like our other pollinator pals, when Monarchs stop to feed on the nectar of flowering plants, they pick up pollen grains that are then transferred to the next plant. In the United States, Monarchs are split into two populations (east and west) that are divided by the Rocky mountains. The Eastern Monarchs overwinter in Central Mexico and the Western Monarchs overwinter in eucalyptus groves on the California Coast. 

Unfortunately, these beautiful butterflies are in crisis. Habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change have vastly impacted their numbers, and in 2024 the US Fish and Wildlife Service proposed they be listed as a threatened species due to their sharp decline. 

Here's how you can help these iconic pollinators:

By creating Monarch habitat and supporting butterfly friendly programs, you can help Monarchs survive throughout their life cycle and long migration!