Invertebrate Welfare

Welfare of Monarch Butterflies

Monarch butterfly populations have declined dramatically due to milkweed loss, pesticide use, and climate disruption of their migratory routes.

Key Facts

Monarch populations have declined over 80% in the past two decades
They depend exclusively on milkweed plants for larval development
Neonicotinoid pesticides kill monarchs directly and eliminate milkweed host plants
Climate disruption is altering migration timing with mismatches between monarchs and food sources
Monarchs were listed as endangered by IUCN in 2022

Welfare Considerations

While monarch individual sentience is uncertain, population collapse eliminates whatever experience monarch lives involve. Habitat restoration at scale — planting milkweed and native flowers — is one of the most accessible welfare and conservation interventions for members of the public.

What You Can Do

Plant native milkweed species in your garden or neighborhood
Eliminate neonicotinoid pesticide use in areas where monarchs are present
Support habitat corridor programs connecting monarch migration routes
Donate to monarch conservation and citizen science monitoring programs