A year ago, we reported that due to a severe winter storm, millions of Monarch butterflies were lying dead in piles more than a foot high in their winter reserve in Mexico. Now the New York Times of February 14 reports that they’ve recovered and are back to nearly normal numbers. This is a relief for those of us who love them and look forward to seeing them every spring.
“It’s more than a little surprising,” says biologist Bill Calvert. “It’s amazing that they recovered so well.” The Monarchs that winter in Mexico make up the entire breeding stock for the Midwest and Eastern U.S. and Canada. So far, they have not been put on the endangered species list.
In the midst of war and terrorism, these wonderful orange beings will be a symbol of hope and a reminder that we’re all connected.
NOTE: This news story, previously published on our old site, will have any links removed.