New Michigan State Study Reveals Vital Insects Are Disappearing

Butterflies—those beautiful flutterers whose delicate wings add a splash of color to Michigan's insect world aren't faring well in today's world. In fact, according to USA Today, the U.S. butterfly population has dropped by a staggering 22% in the last 20 years.

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In simpler terms, if you saw 100 butterflies in your yard in 2005, chances are you'll only see 78 now. While that might not seem like cause for concern, it raises a lot of red flags for scientists.

Why Fewer Butterflies in Michigan is a Bad Omen

While butterflies are some of Michigan's premiere pollinators, the hit in population isn't only hurting flower enthusiasts; it's a warning sign for the state's native ecosystems.

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Fewer butterflies mean fewer caterpillars in Michigan, which means less food for birds and other wildlife. However, the question remains: Why are fewer butterflies calling the Mitten State and United States home?

Why Are Michigan's Butterflies Disappearing?

Elise Zipkin, director of Michigan State University's Ecology, Evolution, and Behavior Program, and her colleagues recently published a study in the journal Science addressing the reasons behind the decline of butterflies in the 21st century, citing the following:

• Habitat Destruction - The fewer Michigan meadows, the fewer butterflies in Michigan
• Hotter, Drier Weather - While great for the beach, these conditions deter butterflies
• Insecticides - While well intended, they are killing more than just pests

The bottom line is that butterflies aren't just pretty little bugs that make for a great lock screen. They're essential pollinators and food sources. If they're in trouble, the entire ecosystem is, too.

How Michiganders Can Help Butterflies

Believe it or not, you can actually help. Here's how:

• Plant Native Plants
• Ditch the Chemicals (yes, that means lawn chemicals, too)
• Let Your Land Go Wild - If you have a section of property you can leave unmaintained, allowing it to grow native plants, let it grow.

The good news is that butterflies reproduce quickly. They can produce two to three generations in a single season, meaning they can make a fast comeback in the right environment, which could be in your backyard.