Human Efforts Crucial in Butterfly Conservation

Human intervention in habitat management significantly aids in slowing or reversing the decline of butterfly populations, which are at risk due to climate change, habitat loss, and pesticide use. Studies show that managed habitats, including home gardens with diverse plant mixes, support more abundant and diverse pollinator populations. Researchers emphasize the importance of planting wildflowers and avoiding pesticides to support these efforts. Field studies and long-term monitoring, such as those conducted by UNR scientists, help track butterfly populations and understand the impact of climate change. Community efforts like those by volunteers at Buckley Space Force Base underscore the role of individual action in conservation. These combined efforts are crucial as butterfly populations, including Monarchs, face significant declines, with some species not yet listed as federally endangered but heavily impacted.