USFWS proposes threatened listing for monarch butterflies

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed listing the monarch butterfly as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act. If listed, the new regulations would prevent people from killing or transporting the species. The rule also includes the designation of more than 4,000 acres along the California coast for monarch (Danaus plexippus) protection. “The iconic monarch butterfly is cherished across North America, captivating children and adults throughout its fascinating lifecycle,” said U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service director Martha Williams in a press release. “Despite its fragility, it is remarkably resilient, like many things in nature when we just give them a chance.” She said that providing the butterflies with more milkweed and nectar plants, even in small areas, can help the recovery effort. A 90-day comment period about the proposal will begin on Dec. 12 when the proposal is published in the Federal Register.

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