The population of monarch butterflies wintering on the western United States coastline has seen a staggering decline, reaching its second-lowest count in nearly thirty years. As reported by multiple sources including AP News and VOA News, the situation is critical for these iconic insects. In a recent survey by the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, reports revealed a mere 9,119 monarchs were counted in 2024, which reflects a 96% drop from 233,394 in 2023, marking the second-lowest count since the survey began in 1997.

Monarchs, recognized for their striking orange-and-black wings, have been struggling due to several pressing factors. Aside from toxins from pesticides, the loss of milkweed, a vital food source for their caterpillars, has contributed significantly to their decline. Factors such as drought, wildfires, and urban development have exacerbated the scarcity of this essential plant. The Guardian notes the growing concern that these environmental changes have left monarchs unable to maintain stable populations.

Furthermore, extreme weather conditions have also played a role; last summer, record-breaking heat waves saw temperatures in regions like Palm Springs soar to 124°F (51.1°C), significantly impacting the breeding cycles of these butterflies. As Emma Pelton, an endangered species biologist from the Xerces Society, explains, “Monarchs suffer when the mercury gets up to 100°F (37.7°C) and any temperatures over 108°F (42.2°C) are lethal.”

Looking at historical data, the highest count recorded was 1.2 million monarchs in 1997, highlighting the drastic changes populations have undergone over the past three decades. This sharp decline is not isolated to one area; it has been noted across several overwintering sites along the California coast and inland regions according to CBS News.

The future of these butterflies remains uncertain. Although populations have shown potential for recovery, as evidenced by rebounds after previous declines, the recent census has many conservationists concerned. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced efforts to list monarchs as a threatened species, which could provide a legal framework for their protection and manage the habitats critical to their survival. A public comment period on this proposal is ongoing, and Earthjustice has urged the Environmental Protection Agency to implement new testing protocols on pesticide impacts on pollinators.

As U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams stated, “The iconic monarch butterfly is cherished across North America... Science shows that the monarch needs that chance.” Whether such actions will sufficiently reverse the current trend remains to be seen. This alarming decline serves as a wake-up call highlighting the urgent need for concerted conservation efforts in the face of significant environmental threats.

For more information, visit the original articles by VOA, The Guardian, AP News, and CBS News.