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Western Monarch Butterflies Face 95% Extinction Risk

2/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The western monarch butterfly population has dwindled to a mere 9,119, marking a troubling low since 1997. Habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change are driving this decline. California State Parks urgently calls for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, warning that without action, these iconic butterflies face a staggering 95% extinction risk by 2080.

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Story summary

The western monarch butterfly population has dwindled to a mere 9,119, marking a troubling low since 1997. Habitat destruction, pesticide use, and climate change are driving this decline. California State Parks urgently calls for federal protection under the Endangered Species Act, warning that without action, these iconic butterflies face a staggering 95% extinction risk by 2080.