An Ode to the Monarch

Each year, thousands of monarch butterflies embark on a great migration.

As a child of the 80’s, growing up along the migration path of the monarch butterfly I have spent summers being fascinated by this butterfly, but I have also seen its decline firsthand. Something that was so magical as a child, is now a rarity to see during our summer months. In the last year alone, the population of monarch butterflies has decreased by 53%.

Every winter, monarchs fly from Canada to the high mountains of Mexico for hibernation. Along this journey, the females lay their eggs on milkweed plants and these caterpillars become the next generation of pollinators. Monarchs hibernate for three months in Mexico before they begin their 2,500 mile return north.

Their travels can be arduous as the Monarch Butterfly is now considered endangered. In the 1980’s there were approximately 4.5 million monarch butterflies, now it’s estimated that fewer than 20,000 remain. Experts ask that their migratory path be conserved. This is where you can help.

The butterflies need the milkweed plant to lay their eggs. Silk Laundry and I are making strides in helping the species and call all friends of Silk Laundry to aid me in this mission

To protect this magical butterfly, plant milkweed seeds and actively engage in rebuilding their migratory path.

- Katie Kolodinksi