Monarch butterflies are arriving along the California coast after last year’s record low migration season. Natalie Johnston works for the Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary.
She said the current status of the population is troubling and noted major threats to the monarchs include climate change, pesticide use, and loss of habitat.
“They're better than last year, but there's still definitely room for improvement for a healthy population,” she said Johnston.
Last year the Monarch Sanctuary counted only 225 butterflies when, historically, millions used to spend the winter at the reserve. As of November 7, the sanctuary’s official number was 87 butterflies, nearly 10 times the amount on that date last year.
“We know that insect populations can recover quite quickly if given the chance,” said Johnston.
Mary Dainton has volunteered with the Monarch Sanctuary since 2010 and interprets monarch butterfly behavior while educating visitors passing through. “They're just amazing,” said Dainton.
At her own home, Dainton adorns her yard with plants and flowers to support the monarchs. She also shares tips about what others can do to support monarch populations.
“Plant native milkweed, and also plant native flowering plants so the monarchs have something to drink,” said Dainton.
After speaking with Dainton along the trail, Cal State Monterey Bay student Leah McCarter says what she’s learned about the monarchs is tragic.
“Well, I am certainly going to go home and plant some flowers, so I feel very educated and aware,” she said.
And McCarter’s response may be just what the butterflies need to help populations recover. “The action that I have seen people take really gives me hope for the future,” said Johnston.
The best time to view butterflies at the Pacific Grove sanctuary is Thanksgiving week.
