In the last decade, due to habitat loss and other factors, monarch butterfly populations have plummeted at an alarming rate. Monarch populations are measured by the total forest area occupied by overwintering monarch colonies. As of March 2025, Monarch butterflies occupied 1.79 hectares, a 99% increase from last year’s 0.9 hectares in the 2023-2024 overwintering season.

WHAT IS THEIR STATUS?

In December 2024 the US Fish and Wildlife Service announced a proposed rule to list the monarch butterfly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, accompanied by a 4(d) rule and critical habitat designation. This proposed rule does not immediately list the monarch under the ESA but marks a significant step in the decision-making process for its protection.

Learn more about their status.

OKLAHOMA'S IMPORTANT ROLE

Oklahoma is centrally located in the monarch migratory path.

In order for Monarchs to thrive, we Okies must provide ample food, shelter and breeding grounds during both their migrations.

• Spring migration & breeding: Monarchs found in central and eastern US and southern Canada winter in Mexico. Each spring, these butterflies leave Mexico and fly northward through our great state in search of milkweed plants on which to lay their eggs. Once hatched, caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed.
• Fall migration: Come fall, monarchs funnel back toward Mexico. Along the way, they find refuge in stopover sights with abundant nectar sources and shelter from harsh weather.

Did you know that there are several monarch look-alike butterflies? Learn more about how to identify monarchs.