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US Fish and Wildlife Service proposes federal protections for Monarch butterfly

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed federal protections for the monarch butterfly under the Endangered Species Act due to a significant decline in its population. This proposal comes after years of research indicating that the monarch butterfly's numbers have dropped by 85% over the past two decades, primarily due to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. The initiative aims to address these threats by potentially designating critical habitats, implementing recovery plans, and engaging in conservation efforts to restore milkweed plants, which are crucial for monarch caterpillars. Public comments on the proposal are being accepted, reflecting the government's commitment to involving citizens in conservation efforts. This move could mark a significant step in the conservation of one of North America's most iconic insects.

Read the Full MSN Article at:
[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/us-fish-and-wildlife-service-proposes-federal-protections-for-monarch-butterfly/ar-AA1vL0LU ]