human
Can you tell me about the plight of the monarch butterfly?
assistant
The monarch butterfly is a beautiful and iconic species that has been declining in population due to loss of habitat, climate change, and pesticide use. It is estimated that over 90% of the monarchs' wintering grounds have been lost due to agricultural development and urbanization, which can lead to decreased food sources for the butterflies. Additionally, the use of certain pesticides, such as neonicotinoids, are known to be harmful to monarch populations by killing off adult butterflies or their eggs, making them unable to reproduce. To help protect this important species, conservation efforts focus on preserving existing habitats, restoring native plants, and reducing pesticide use.