Monarch Butterfly Conservation

Next weekend, locals from the Greater St. Thomas Area (GSTA) will flock to Hawk's Cliff, much like the birds they're headed to see. Hawk's Cliff has long been part of the migratory route for birds of prey and butterflies alike, and local birders and naturalist groups typically gather annually in September to do a bird and butterfly count and to educate members of the general public about the natural history of these creatures.

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), a charismatic insect species on the decline, has had their own educational awareness workshop for several years now. Naturalists encourage area residents to plant milkweed in their gardens in hopes that the species will suddenly regenerate. However, local conservationist Dr. Flaedyn Shagg thinks that this method of conservation is just not enough.

"The monarch butterfly is going extinct; it's just a matter of time," said Dr. Shagg while training at the local shooting range. "What we need to do is look to conservation models from the past for our inspiration. The West African black rhinoceros, the passenger pigeon - these represent successful conservation efforts by past generations. We got a bunch of hunters together, killed the remaining animals, and saved the species for science."

Dr. Shagg has the support of many of the members of the St. Thomas Hunt Club, as well as the local chapter of the Donors bicycle gang. "I've never hunted and killed a butterfly before. They're so small and fly so quickly that it will be a unique challenge to my marksmanship," said St. Thomas Hunt Club treasurer Jonathan Douglas excitedly.

St. Thomas Donors president Harley Riggs shared the enthusiasm of Mr. Douglas. "I've killed a lot of different things and also people in my life using a lot of different weapons, but never a butterfly with a gun. It will be a nice addition to my kill list," said Mr. Riggs.

Local naturalist groups are pleased to see so many new members of the community interested in conservation. Debra Sand, the lead educator at the annual Hawk's Cliff effort, says, "This is a real breakthrough. We've never formed a conservation partnership with a bicycle gang or a hunt club before, and we're so pleased that these community groups are stepping up to do their part to save the butterflies for science. They haven't really been clear as to how exactly they're planning to help yet, but I'm sure we can talk about all of that at the event itself."

When told that Dr. Shagg has applied for non-profit status for his new NGO, Historical Monarch Butterfly Conservationists, Ms. Sand said that she'll do everything in her power to support the effort. "It's a real case of the whole community, including diverse members and groups, coming together. It's great that Dr. Shagg has joined with the Donors and the Hunt Club in this effort to receive accreditation and government sponsorship for their conservation plans."

Conservation efforts for the monarch butterfly start next Saturday at 6 a.m. at Hawk's Cliff. 

Bring your gun.