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Monarch Migration News: January, 2015
By Elizabeth Howard |
Please Report
Your Sightings! |
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The overwintering season in Mexico is now underway. Scientists measure the population in late December and announce the results by March. Will the population have increased from last year's record low?
November 16, 2014 El Rosario Sanctuary Estela Romero
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News: Waiting for Population Measurements |
An Increase Predicted
The results of the annual population measurements — taken in late December — are typically released by March. We predict the population will have doubled from last year's record low, based on this fall's migration data and from overall impressions during the breeding season.
A Lucky Break
Weather conditions during this year's breeding season were ideal, following the two bad years that led to the population crash. If this year's population does double — to 66 million butterflies — it would still be only 20% of the long term average.
How Many Needed?
If last year's record-low population had encountered poor breeding conditions, we don't know if the population could have recovered. What does the target population size need to be to preserve the migration? Scientists simply don't know the extinction threshold. |
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Winter in Mexico: Month-by-month Highlights |
November |
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December |
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Arriving
Throughout the month, monarchs continue
to arrive from the north and settle in at the 12 traditional wintering sites. |
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Being Counted
Scientists visit the 12 wintering sites and measure the surface area the colonies cover. Results will be released by March, 2015. |
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January |
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February |
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Surviving Cold
Watch the weather! At this coldest time of year, monarchs are at the greatest risk of mortality from deadly winter storms. |
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Preparing to Migrate
Monarchs that survive four winter months will mate and begin the journey north in March. Join us for weekly updates on Feb. 5, 2015. |
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Maps: Report Your Sightings |
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Journal and Activities |
- Slideshow: Why So Special for Monarchs?
- Journal: Why important to conserve oyamel forest?
- Journal: Explore monarch overwintering region.
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Next Update February 5, 2015 |
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