The Monarch Butterfly Migration: Its Rise and Fall

by Monika Maeckle

Each fall, millions of monarch butterflies migrate from Canada to Mexico. The monarch migration is a demonstration of nature's ingenuity, but the delicate creatures face many perils, and the number of migrating monarchs is declining sharply. This book weaves natural history, science, and personal experience to explore the rise and fall of one of nature's most spectacular phenomena.

While monarch butterflies have been migrating for centuries, they seized public attention in 1976 when a National Geographic magazine cover story featured the "discovery" of their roosting sites in Mexico. The revelations put a spotlight on the insects and inspired the creation of butterfly sanctuaries in Mexico as well as efforts to protect them. Almost forty years later, many believe that monarch butterflies are in danger of extinction. Journalist and butterfly advocate Monika Maeckle delves into the rich history and current plight of the monarch butterfly. Maeckle offers unique insights on the butterflies as well as a nuanced portrait of the community of scientists, enthusiasts, and "flutterati" who have emerged to support the monarchs.

The Monarch Butterfly Migration focuses a wider lens on the effects of climate change and the tensions between advocacy and scientific accuracy. This book reminds us to notice the natural wonders in our own backyards.

PLEASE When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.

Genres: Nonfiction

240 pages, Hardcover

Published August 20, 2024

Reviews

[Bryan Burks · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading this book, I feel like I now know the full story of the monarch butterfly. I learned things that I have never knew before. I felt like I was experiencing the monarch butterfly as the author did. I didn't realize how many parts to the butterfly story there actually are. Thank you Monika for taking me on this wonderful journey. For anyone who longs for a deeper understanding and appreciation of the monarch butterfly, this book is for you.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really interesting exploration of the history of the monarch migration (who knew there was so much ✨drama✨?!) along with the challenges faced today and in the future. I appreciate the author’s curiosity and open-ended questions, never taking a dogmatic stance and instead allowing space for thinking through the problems, possible solutions, and adaptations.

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great historical, cultural, and scientific context for the interest in monarch conservation. Information sometimes appears contradictory - this book seems to present info more than draw conclusions. Definitely a worthwhile piece of literature on the topic

[Michele Morrigan · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book had some really interesting information, but I had a hard time finishing it.

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

comprehensive