Butterflies Are Disappearing—Here’s How You Can Help Save Them

Across Colorado and North America, butterflies are disappearing. In fact, a new national study published in Science reveals that butterfly populations have declined by more than 22% over the past 20 years. But here’s the good news: community scientists and conservation organizations like Butterfly Pavilion are stepping up to turn the tide—and you can help.

Butterfly Pavilion and our Colorado Butterfly Monitoring Network (CBMN) were recently featured in The Denver Post and across the country for our leadership in protecting pollinators. This recognition is more than just a media moment. It highlights the critical role that our staff, volunteers, and community partners play in collecting long-term butterfly data—and that data contributed directly to the national study.

For more than 13 years, CBMN volunteers have been hiking Colorado trails, identifying species, and submitting data that helps researchers and conservationists understand how butterfly populations are changing and where efforts are most urgently needed. It’s people-powered science with real impact.

And the best part? You don’t need to be a scientist to help.

Join the Movement: Two Ways to Get Involved

1. Become a Butterfly Monitor
   CBMN is still welcoming volunteers across Colorado. Training is available virtually online, so you can start from anywhere. You’ll help monitor butterflies in your own Colorado community and contribute data that supports real conservation action. Learn more: butterflies.org/cbmn
2. Help Restore Colorado’s Native Prairies
   Through our Urban Prairies Project, volunteers help restore and protect native prairie ecosystems—habitats essential to butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. It’s a hands-on way to directly improve the landscapes these species rely on. Get involved: butterflies.org/urbanprairiesproject

More Ways to Support Butterfly Conservation

Butterfly Pavilion’s mission extends beyond CBMN. We are a global leader in invertebrate research, conservation, and conservation. From pollinator protection and habitat restoration in Colorado to global conservation initiatives, we’re working every day to protect the smallest but most essential creatures on Earth.

You can make a difference by:

• Visiting our zoo — Every ticket supports our mission: butterflies.org
• Donating to our conservation work — Your gift helps fund research, fieldwork, and education: butterflies.org/donate
• Volunteering your time — Join our community science efforts or restoration programs: butterflies.org/get-involved

Butterflies are not just beautiful—they’re essential to healthy ecosystems. Their decline is a warning sign, but also a call to action.

By getting involved, you can help protect these important species and ensure a healthier planet for future generations.

Every action counts. Every visit helps. Every donation supports nature’s small wonders.