Fanciful Friday: Numbers

“Good news is rare these days, and every glittering ounce of it should be cherished and hoarded and worshipped and fondled like a priceless diamond.”

— Hunter S. Thompson

In August 2026, scientists and conservationists marked a remarkable achievement when the number of monarch butterflies, an endangered species, rose substantially all over North America. The most recent figures from the Monarch Joint Venture and several university research groups show a 40% rise in the population compared with the previous year, a hopeful sign after decades of decline.

The recovery stems from a joint initiative in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, in which governments, non-profit organizations, and ordinary people have planted native milkweed and nectar plants along the butterflies’ migration paths. Strict regulations on pesticide use and improved habitat corridors on farmland have also played an important role. Experts believe this turnaround shows the effectiveness of coordinated, cross-border conservation and offers hope that other struggling species can also recover through continued dedication and community involvement. The monarch butterfly’s return is a living example of how specific, positive actions can deliver real, tangible benefits for our planet’s biodiversity.

Ok, a small achievement, but in this day and age when it often feels like the environment, and us with it, is swirling around the drain, I’ll take it. 👍

Let’s take a moment to remember all those who lost their lives 25 years ago on 9/11.

Have a good weekend, everyone!

Sources:

Monarch Joint Venture

Website: https://monarchjointventure.org/
Provides annual reports, news updates, and resources on monarch conservation.

US Fish and Wildlife Service – Monarch Butterfly Conservation

Website: https://www.fws.gov/program/monarch-butterfly
Includes updates on population trends and habitat initiatives.

Journey North – Monarch Butterfly Migration Tracking

Website: https://journeynorth.org/monarchs
Regularly publishes migration maps and citizen science data.

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) – Monarch Butterfly

Website: https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/monarch-butterfly
Features news, reports, and conservation work related to monarchs.