Solon, Iowa (KCRG)-The monarch butterfly is currently on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s endangered species list, but it is an important part of our ecosystem.
“With the deforestation of central Mexico, they migrated there for the winter. They are losing their habitat,” said Glenda Eubanks.
“In addition, in the United States, when they migrated back, there were not so many places for them to live in. Their only food source was milkweed. Milkweed had been killed by pesticides.”
Glenda Eubanks discovered the passion for the monarch and helped increase the population of Iowa. It all started in 2019, when a grandson of Eubanks brought a caterpillar that she had been caring for.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hits, Glenda has more time to cultivate her love for butterflies. This also gave her a chance to get closer with her grandchildren.
“It’s just what it taught them about nature. You know what, we know what we need to do to protect butterflies, animals, everything,” Glenda said.
Glenda also tragically lost her mother at the age of 89 because of COVID-19. She said that she remembered her through the butterfly.
“When I woke up, a monarch butterfly emerged from the pupa,” Glenda said. “It reminds me of my mother, so when I see a butterfly, I think of my mother. I think it kind of makes me want to do what I do for them.”
Post time: Nov-10-2021
