Monarch Butterfly Protection

SOURCE www.npr.org
U.S. wildlife officials decide to extend federal protections to monarch butterflies due to shrinking populations and threats from climate change. Monarchs are proposed to be listed as threatened species, prohibiting killing or transporting them. Critical habitat in California designated for protection. Populations are declining due to climate change, agricultural expansion, and herbicides affecting milkweed, their main food source.

Key Points

  • Monarchs face threats from climate change, agricultural expansion, and herbicides impacting milkweed
  • Proposed listing as threatened species aims to prevent further population decline
  • Critical habitat designation in California will safeguard overwintering sites

Pros

  • Monarch butterflies will receive federal protections to help preserve their populations
  • Proposed listing as threatened species will prohibit killing or transporting monarchs
  • Designation of critical habitat in California will protect overwintering sites

Cons

  • Monarch populations are declining due to climate change, agricultural expansion, and herbicides affecting milkweed
  • Potential restrictions on land use and development in designated critical habitat areas