Scientists brought to tears by huge loss of U.S. butterflies

Butterflies are a beloved insect that bring joy and delight to people all over the world. Their colorful wings and graceful flight make them a favorite among insect enthusiasts. Many people even go as far as counting and tracking butterflies for fun, similar to bird watching. In the past two decades, volunteers and researchers have conducted surveys across the U.S., spotting and counting over 12.6 million individual butterflies from 554 species.

However, a recent study funded by the U.S. Geological Survey has revealed some troubling news. Populations of butterflies have declined by 22 per cent between 2000 and 2020. This decline has left many researchers and conservationists devastated by the results. The study, published in the journal Science, compiled data from over 76,000 surveys conducted at 2,478 locations, making it the most comprehensive study of insects in North America.

The decline in butterfly populations is not just a loss for insect enthusiasts, but also has significant implications for ecosystems. Butterflies play a crucial role in transferring nutrients from plants up the food chain and pollinating flowering plants. The decline in butterfly populations could also indicate declines in other insect species that are vital to ecosystem health.

While the study does not pinpoint specific reasons for the decline, threats such as pesticides, climate change, and habitat loss are believed to be contributing factors. These threats are not limited to the U.S., as Canadian butterfly populations are also facing similar challenges. Conservation efforts, such as habitat restoration and reducing pesticide use, can help boost butterfly populations.

Individuals can also play a role in supporting butterfly populations by planting butterfly-friendly plants in their gardens or balconies. Providing host plants for caterpillars, such as milkweed for monarch butterflies, and nectar-rich flowers for adult butterflies can help support their populations. Additionally, participating in citizen science projects like iNaturalist or eButterfly can help monitor butterfly populations and contribute valuable data for research.

Overall, the decline in butterfly populations serves as a wake-up call for conservation efforts to protect these beautiful insects and the ecosystems they support. By taking action at both a local and global level, we can help ensure the survival of butterflies for future generations to enjoy.