FEATURE Review by Elizabeth Egan
Municipalities Building Monarch Communities
The migration of the monarch butterfly is one of the most advanced two-way migrations. At the weight of a paperclip, monarchs can travel almost 3,000 miles through three countries! Monarchs will travel from the Oyamel Fir Forest in Mexico through the United States and north to Canada in the spring. After breeding through the summer months, the new generations of monarchs travel through our backyards south to Mexico. In recent years, monarch butterfly populations have fallen by almost 90%. Not only does this steep decline threaten the ability of future generations to enjoy this beautiful species, but it is also a sounding alarm that our ecosystems are in trouble. Monarch butterflies are an
indicator species, meaning the health of the monarch population reflects the health of the ecosystem around it. When we see a decline in monarch butterflies and other pollinators, we also see a decline in species that rely on them, such as quail and other insect-eating predators. Many factors have challenged monarch populations, including habitat loss, climate change, land usage, poorly timed mowing and herbicide applications, and changes to production in agriculture systems. A significant decline in nectar sources and milkweed in monarch breeding areas, including Missouri, are also a considerable threat. The decline in various milkweed species is particularly troublesome as they are
essential for monarch survival. It is the only plant on which monarch butterflies lay eggs and essentially the only plant monarch caterpillars eat. Monarch Watch estimates that around 2.2 million acres of potential milkweed are lost each year in the United States. Without milkweed, there will be no monarchs. The future of the monarch butterfly might seem grim, but there is hope. Scientists are discovering that urban pollinator habitats will play an even more significant role in supporting pollinator populations than anticipated. Therefore, Missourians for Monarchs is encouraging municipalities to plant native, diverse pollinator habitats. Town and city properties such as parks, median strips, community gardens and www.mocities.com
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