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Butterfly populations in the United States (US) have dropped by 22% since 2000, according to a new study.\u00a0<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n The decline is mainly caused by insecticides, climate change, and habitat loss. These threats have significantly impacted butterfly species across the country, reducing their numbers at an alarming rate.<\/p>\n Scientists found that butterfly numbers in 48 states have been shrinking by an average of 1.3% per year, with 114 species in significant decline and only nine species increasing.\u00a0<\/p>\n Some of the most affected species have seen population drops of more than 40%, raising concerns about long-term survival.<\/p>\n The study, published in\u00a0Science<\/a>, is the first large-scale analysis of butterfly populations in the US. Scientists reviewed nearly 77,000 surveys, tracking 12.6 million butterflies.\u00a0<\/p>\n The data reveals that even widespread species are struggling. The red admiral butterfly has dropped by 58%. The white cabbage butterfly has decreased by 50% and the American lady butterfly population by 44%.<\/p>\n The study found that butterfly populations in the Southwest\u2014Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma\u2014have dropped by more than 50% in the last 20 years. Warmer and drier regions appear to be more affected, with species in these areas struggling to survive.<\/p>\n Butterflies play a key role in ecosystems. Their decline is a warning sign for the health of the environment. The loss of butterflies also impacts plant reproduction, as they help pollinate flowers and crops.<\/p>\n Despite the alarming decline, scientists say there is still hope. Restoring habitats can help butterfly populations recover.\u00a0<\/p>\n Reducing pesticide<\/a> use and protecting natural landscapes could improve conditions for many species. Even small efforts, like planting native flowers in home gardens, can make a difference.<\/p>\n The Animal Reader is an independent animal news platform based in the Netherlands. We share daily updates about animal-related issues.<\/em><\/p>\n Worst declines in the Southwest<\/strong><\/h2>\n
Hope for recovery<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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