Why are butterflies important? They pollinate flowering plants and serve as food to birds and other animals. They’re a litmus test of our environment, giving us early warning of pollution or other kinds of habitat degradation. And of course, they’re among the most beautiful of all creatures.

What threatens butterflies? Primarily loss of habitat: Prairie, wetlands, and woodlands are losing ground to farming, industry, and housing developments. Some pesticides used in farming, mosquito control programs, and lawn care also kill caterpillars, butterflies, and moths. A few native butterflies are being crowded out by non-native species; others have been harmed by pollution.

You can help preserve butterfly and moth populations by planting wildflowers, other favored “butterfly plants,” and host plants for caterpillars. You can also support efforts to preserve and restore the special habitats needed by many endangered, threatened, or declining species.

Go to some examples of extinct and threatened butterflies.

Back to Butterfly Basics.