Monarch butterflies, known for their striking orange-and-black wings, may soon gain federal protection in the United States. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service revealed plans on Tuesday to classify monarch butterflies as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act by December 2025. Environmental groups have long called attention to the species’ dramatic population declines caused by habitat destruction, agricultural activities, and climate change. These factors have drastically reduced milkweed availability, an essential plant for monarch caterpillars. Data from the World Wildlife Fund Mexico showed that monarchs occupied only 2.2 acres of overwintering sites in 2023, marking a 59% reduction from the previous year. The Xerces Society also reported an 81% decline in California’s monarch population over the last 25 years, signaling an ominous environmental challenge.

The proposed listing seeks to curb harmful actions, such as large-scale killing or unauthorized transport of the butterflies, while permitting limited educational use and incidental losses like vehicle collisions. Federal officials aim to designate 4,395 acres in seven California coastal counties as critical habitats, ensuring protection of breeding sites and migration pathways. Agricultural groups voiced concerns about regulatory impacts but recognized the importance of voluntary conservation efforts. Experts stress that safeguarding the monarch butterfly is paramount to preserving ecological balance. This initiative underscores the profound necessity of addressing the far-reaching effects of climate change and habitat destruction through collective action.