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:
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Create a Monarch waystation by planting native milkweed (early season milkweed is best) and native flowering plants for monarchs to feed on.
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Eliminate the use of pesticides on flowering plants and ensure any plants you purchase from nurseries are pesticide free.
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Get involved in your community and support measures like
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Grassland restoration, which is critical for Monarchs.
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Highway habitat corridors, which will help plant milkweed and nectar bearing plants along monarch migration paths.
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Volunteer Citizen Scientists, who help count monarchs and report on their findings.
By creating Monarch habitat and supporting butterfly friendly programs, you can help Monarchs survive throughout their life cycle and long migration!
Painted Lady vs. Monarch: Which Butterfly Is Best for Raising?
The Monarch Butterfly and the Painted Lady Butterfly are often mistaken for one another, due to their similar orange and black coloring. Read on to discover why the Painted Lady is the preferred choice for your butterfly-raising activities, and why Monarchs should stay wild!
Insect Lore Butterfly Garden Kit Guide: Which One Should You Choose?
Can't decide which Butterfly Garden habitat is the right choice for you? No problem! We've got the perfect guide to help you find the perfect experience for your life cycle adventure.
How to Create a Butterfly Life Cycle Project at Home for Summer Break
From painted wings to handmade decorations, here are some butterfly-themed projects offer the perfect way to learn biology: as well as inspire moments of creativity, discovery, and joy!
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