by 
New research shows butterfly populations are collapsing by 22% across the U.S. in two decades, raising alarm among ecologists and conservationists.
Butterfly Populations Plummet Across the United States
A new study published in the journal Science reveals a dramatic decline in butterfly populations across the United States, with an alarming 22% decrease in abundance between 2000 and 2020. The study, which synthesizes data from over 76,000 surveys, highlights a troubling trend in biodiversity loss, emphasizing the urgent need for conservation efforts.
Michigan Scientists Warn of a Growing Crisis
Elise Zipkin, a Red Cedar Distinguished Professor at Michigan State University (MSU) and a co-author of the study, underscores the gravity of the findings.
“To lose 22% of butterflies across the continental U.S. in just two decades is distressing and shows a clear need for broad-scale conservation interventions.”
Alongside Nick Haddad, an MSU professor of integrative biology and co-author of the study, Zipkin has been a leading figure in tracking butterfly populations nationwide. Haddad, a terrestrial ecologist, says the decline is evident even in his own Michigan neighborhood.
“My neighbors notice it. Unprompted, they’ll say, ‘I’m seeing fewer butterflies in my garden; is that real?’ My neighbors are right. And it’s so shocking.”
The Numbers Paint a Bleak Picture
The research, conducted by a working group at the USGS Powell Center for Analysis and Synthesis, integrates data from 35 monitoring programs, covering over 12.6 million butterfly records. Findings indicate that 13 times as many species are declining as increasing, with 107 species losing more than half their populations.
One exception is the Pacific Northwest, where butterfly populations appeared to increase by 13.8%. However, experts caution that this is largely due to a temporary population surge of the California tortoiseshell butterfly, and may not indicate long-term stability.
Why Butterflies Matter to Michigan and Beyond
Butterflies play a crucial role in ecosystems. As pollinators, they contribute significantly to plant reproduction and agricultural productivity. In Michigan, where agriculture is a key industry, the loss of butterflies could impact crop yields and biodiversity.
Butterflies are also an essential food source for birds and other wildlife. Notably, their decline parallels North America’s loss of nearly 3 billion birds over the past 50 years.
The Role of Pesticides and Policy Solutions
The study highlights insecticides as a major driver of butterfly decline, surpassing even habitat loss and climate change. Haddad warns that indiscriminate pesticide use harms beneficial insects while providing little benefit to crop yields.
“Prophylactic and near-universal application of insecticides harms butterflies and other beneficial insects, with no proven benefit to crop yield. The good news is that the widespread application of insecticides can be reversed, and butterflies and other pollinators will recover.”
Experts suggest a policy shift toward reducing pesticide use and restoring natural habitats. Reallocating underperforming agricultural land for conservation could help butterfly populations rebound.
Butterfly Populations Are Collapsing – What’s Next for Butterfly Conservation?
The findings serve as a wake-up call for policymakers and conservationists. Zipkin urges lawmakers to take immediate action to safeguard biodiversity:
“People depend on plants, microbes, and animals for the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. Yet, we are losing species at rates that rival the major mass extinction events on our planet.”
As efforts to curb insecticide use and preserve natural habitats gain momentum, conservationists hope to reverse the trend before more species disappear.
Find More Interesting Feature Stories From ThumbWind
- Michigan Feature Stories – Unveiling the diverse and vibrant people, captivating places, and remarkable events that come together to make the Great Lake State unique and cherished by both residents and visitors alike.
- Weird Political News – A sarcastic take on official news from around the U.S., exploring the absurdities that often arise in the political landscape while providing a humorous perspective on current events and highlighting the quirks of politicians and policies.
- Michigan News – News and events from Michigan’s Upper Thumb region worth knowing, including local stories, impactful interviews, and updates on community happenings that shape the culture and lifestyle of the area.
Your Turn – Like This, or Loath it – We Want To Hear From You
Please offer an insightful and thoughtful comment. We review each response. Follow us to have other feature stories fill up your email box, or check us out on ThumbWind Publications.
