monarch butterflies

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said populations have declined by more than 95% in the west and 80% in the east.

The monarch population in the U.S. and Canada has shrunk dramatically over the past decade. Their wintering areas in Mexico and California, and the milkweed their larvae feed upon, face threats from deforestation, pesticides, and climate change.

ORONO, Maine - Nature lovers who encounter fluttering butterflies might also be able to contribute to research about the colorful insects. Researchers at…