The US Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed classifying the monarch butterfly as “threatened with extinction.” This move is expected to bring significant attention to the plight of these iconic insects.
The classification would mark a major shift in the conservation status of the monarch, which has been facing numerous threats to its survival. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change are among the key factors contributing to the decline of the species.
If approved, the threatened designation would require the service to develop a conservation plan to protect the monarch butterfly and its habitats. The plan would aim to stabilize and recover the population, but ultimately prevent extinction.
The classification is based on current scientific data and assessments, which indicate that the monarch butterfly is at high risk of becoming extinct in the near future if urgent action is not taken.
Source: https://weather.com/science/nature/video/will-monarchs-join-the-endangered-species-list-in-2025