In a world where environmental news is often marked by biodiversity loss and climate change, there is one story that inspires hope: the recovery of the monarch butterfly.
For years, the iconic butterfly has been a symbol of resilience, but also an example of the challenges facing migratory species.
Today, thanks to conservation efforts across North America, the monarch is seeing signs of recovery.
The latest study by World Wildlife Fund-Mexico indicates that the eastern monarch butterfly population wintering in the forests of central Mexico occupied an estimated 4.42 acres of forest during the winter of 2024-2025.
“The population size nearly doubled compared to the previous winter, when this species occupied 2.2 acres. To achieve a stable population, eastern monarch butterflies would need to occupy nearly 15 acres of forest,” according to the WWF.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently proposed listing the monarch as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.
The NWF (National Wildlife Federation) believes this will help sustain growth and ensure the stability of the species.
“Listing the monarch as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act allows us to use targeted conservation methods to prioritize the protection of overwintering habitat and the restoration of areas that are vital to the species’ reproduction,” said Dr. Rebeca Quiñonez-Piñón, NWF senior scientist.
The key to the monarch’s recent success in recovering has been the collaboration between environmental groups, governments, local communities, scientists, and citizens.
In Mexico, protection of the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve has been strengthened, reducing illegal logging and promoting sustainable economic alternatives for communities.
In the United States and Canada, habitat restoration initiatives have multiplied, including the planting of milkweed, the only plant on which monarchs lay their eggs and on which their larvae depend.
Individual actions have also been crucial. Gardeners, farmers, and environmental advocates have created ecological corridors for monarchs, allowing them to find refuge and food along their migratory route.
The resurgence of the monarch butterfly is proof that when society unites for an environmental cause, results can be achieved. It is a valuable lesson in times of ecological crisis: we still have time to reverse the damage and protect biodiversity.
Every action counts. Whether it’s planting milkweed in a garden, supporting conservation initiatives, or spreading the word about the importance of these efforts, we can all be part of the monarch butterfly’s success story.
