| While annual fluctuations in monarch numbers draw attention, scientists say the real concern is long-term decline of monarchs and other butterflies driven by habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. When we hear our smallest friends are struggling, it’s a call to make changes at home and in our communities. |
|
Western Monarch Numbers Remain at Historic Low
The 29th annual Western Monarch Count revealed a historically low population for the second year in a row. Approximately 12,260 monarchs were recorded , the third-lowest tally since the count began in 1997.
“The migration is collapsing,” said Emma Pelton, a senior conservation biologist with the Xerces Society. “Our window for action is narrowing, and our conservation efforts must accelerate.”
Learn more
Leer en español |
|
|
Join the Western Monarch Call to Action
The Xerces Society is inviting all Californians to make a tangible difference this year through the Western Monarch Call to Action. This guide provides a set of rapid response conservation actions that can help the western monarch population bounce back from its critically low numbers.
Not in California? Most of these tips will help monarchs throughout the United States. |
|
|
|
In Memory of Carol Knapp, Gifting Her Family the Value of Conservation
In November 2025, the Xerces community lost a long-time member with the passing of Carol Knapp, of Newcastle, Maine. Her grandson Andrew Gioannetti shares her last message: conservation can’t wait.
Learn more |
|
| The Xerces Society is a donor-supported nonprofit organization that protects our world through the conservation of invertebrates and their habitats.
Your tax-deductible donation will help grow and sustain that essential work. |
|
|
|
|
| Donation and membership questions:
membership
855-232-6639 (option 2) |
|
|
|
|
North Carolina Small Farm Association 