The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reopening the public comment period for a proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The proposed rule includes species-specific protections and flexibilities to encourage conservation of the butterfly under section 4(d) of the ESA. The comment period will be reopened for 60 days, until May 19, 2025, to give all interested parties an additional opportunity to comment on the proposed rule, which was published on December 12, 2024. Comments that were previously submitted do not need to be resubmitted as they are already incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in the final listing determination.

Importance of the Monarch Butterfly in Ecosystems

Monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus) are not only beautiful creatures but also play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They are pollinators, helping to fertilize plants by transferring pollen, which is vital for plant reproduction. This process supports agriculture and contributes to the production of fruits and vegetables that are essential for human diets. The decline in monarch populations can, therefore, have far-reaching consequences beyond just the loss of a single species.

The significance of public comments cannot be overstated. They allow citizens, researchers, and conservationists to provide insights that may not be apparent to regulatory agencies. For instance, local communities can share information about habitat conditions and monarch sightings that are crucial for assessing the species’ status. In some cases, public comments have led to changes in proposed rules or additional protections for species that were not initially considered.

Additionally, the proposed rule may include various conservation measures such as Monarch Butterfly habitat restoration, public education campaigns, and partnerships with landowners to create monarch-friendly environments. These measures are designed to enhance the survival of monarch butterflies and their larvae, which rely on milkweed plants for food. By educating the public about planting milkweed and nectar-rich flowers, the Service aims to increase awareness and foster community involvement in conservation efforts.

It’s also worth noting that the monarch butterfly’s migration is an extraordinary natural phenomenon. Each year, millions of these butterflies travel thousands of miles from Canada and the United States to their wintering grounds in Mexico. This journey, often spanning multiple generations, requires the species to find food, shelter, and proper breeding habitats along the way. Protecting these migratory routes is essential for the survival of the species and highlights the need for international cooperation in conservation efforts.

Individuals can contribute to the conservation of monarch butterflies in numerous ways. Creating butterfly gardens by planting native flowering plants and milkweed is a simple yet effective method to provide food and habitat for these insects. Many organizations offer resources and guidance on how to establish such gardens, which can be beneficial not only for monarchs but also for other pollinators. Schools, community groups, and individuals can collaborate to create butterfly habitats, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose in conservation.

Public comments are an integral part of the ESA listing determination process, and

the Service recognizes the complexity of the information requested for public comment in the proposed rule. By reopening the public comment period, the agency is ensuring everyone has a chance to share information relevant to the conservation status of the species, including the associated 4(d) rule and proposed critical habitat designation.

The reopening of the public comment period for the monarch butterfly will publish in the Federal Register Reading Room today. A reopened 60-day comment period will open on March 19, 2025, and will close on May 19, 2025. Information about how to submit comments can be found on regulations.gov by searching for docket number FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137.

Everyone can play a role in saving the monarch butterfly. Because of the species’ general habitat use and wide distribution, all sectors of society have an opportunity to participate in a broad range of conservation efforts throughout the butterfly’s range. You can learn more about the monarch butterfly, the monarch listing proposal, and how to help conserve monarch butterflies at fws.gov/monarch.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people