Solar-powered trackers help scientists monitor endangered monarch butterflies in California

Scientists in California are deploying miniature solar-powered devices on monarch butterflies to track their movements and study habitat use. The research focuses on understanding how these butterflies rely on overwintering sites and nectar sources during migration. The migratory monarch butterfly was classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2022. Data collected through this technology aims to support conservation efforts for the declining species. Members of the public can also contribute to the research by logging observations via the Project Monarch app.