About Camila's Monarch Butterfly Gardens
Protecting Monarch Butterflies, One Garden at a Time
Our Mission
Our mission is to investigate the ecological impact of butterflies by raising awareness and establishing small-scale butterfly research farms along the East Coast. We aim to understand and promote the critical role butterflies play in environmental health, recognizing that their ecological significance extends far beyond their visual beauty. Through careful evaluation of their habitat needs, we have identified milkweed as a crucial element in supporting butterfly populations, ensuring both their survival and the health of the ecosystems they help sustain.
Monarch Butterflies are going extinct
The monarch butterfly has declined by 85% in the past two decades and are in dire need for people to do their part in helping save them. The Center for biological diversity filed for lawsuit in order to protect Monarch butterflies. Butterflies are an endangered species.
Why do we care?
If you like tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, melons, watermelons, cucumbers, summer squash, winter squash, okra, peas, and beans, you better care about Monarch Butterflies because they help pollinate these fruits and vegetables! Monarch butterflies are vital to our ecosystem, primarily due to their significant role in pollination. However, they face the threat of extinction, making it crucial to implement conservation efforts. Camila's Butterfly Project addresses this issue by encouraging the community to plant milkweed and establishing butterfly research habitats throughout Pennsylvania, aiming to safeguard the monarch population and ensure their continued ecological contribution.
Let's help
We have found that these 2 factors contribute to monarch butterflies declining
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Habitat loss- No milkweed
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Pesticide exposure
The primary method to support monarch butterflies is by creating small butterfly habitats, such as planting milkweed. Research indicates that milkweed is the most preferred plant for monarchs, serving as their essential food source. Camila's Butterfly Project believes that increasing milkweed in our backyards will significantly contribute to their conservation.
How It Started
Camila’s Butterfly Project began when Camila was 7, inspired by a visit to a butterfly waystation and learning about the monarch's incredible journey. What started as a personal mission to plant milkweed and create butterfly-friendly spaces grew into a community-driven effort focused on research, education, and conservation. Through these efforts, we aim to ensure a thriving future for monarchs and preserve their vital ecological role.
