Monarch Butterflies to Receive Protected Status
News from the Associated Press on Tuesday: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans to add the monarch butterfly to the threatened species list by the end of 2025. “The iconic monarch butterfly is cherished across North America, captivating children and adults throughout its fascinating life cycle,” U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Martha Williams said in a news release. “Despite its fragility, it is remarkably resilient, like many things in nature when we just give them a chance.”
According to the AP, “Monarchs west of the Rocky Mountains typically migrate to the California coast, where their colorful clusters in tree groves attract nature lovers and tourists.” Here in Santa Cruz County, monarchs are commonly seen in the eucalyptus grove at Natural Bridges State Beach. The proposal designates 4,395 acres across several coastal California counties as critical habitat for the monarch. Read more from the AP.
Julie Horner is Co-Founder and Editor for the San Lorenzo Valley Post. Julie lives and works in Boulder Creek and is an active participant in the county's vibrant music scene. She loves the outdoors and is the go-to expert on Santa Cruz Mountains hiking trails.
