KCBA - Monterey, Salinas, Santa Cruz - News Weather-Tree Trimming May Affect Monarch Butterflies
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Pacific Grove, Calif.-" Its nice to see them even if its just a small bunch they are pretty amazing," said Louis Brower. The Monarch butterflies have arrived to Pacific Groves's Monarch Sanctuary. This year, however, they are welcomed by trimmed Eucalyptus trees.
In October the city hired a company to do the work for public safety reasons. "They are critically important, without the trees, butterflies wouldn't be here," said Dr. Francis Villablanca, a researcher currently examining if the tree trimming has disrupted the butterflies' habitat." I think its too early for us to be able to tell for certain," said Villablanca.
He said, however, it does raise concerns the protection typically offering the butterflies has been reduced. "Wind protection moisture protection, serve the right little micro climate for over winter, " said Villablanca.
Researchers are also looking into whether it has affected the butterfly population. This year Dr. Villablanca says they saw an 85 % drop in the number of butterflies from last year.
While researchers gather data, city leaders are already looking into whether it will give residents a permit to remove some Monterey Pines from their property. The trees in question are just 100 yards away from the butterflies. " They certainly need to bring it to a scientist to evaluate it since its an extremely environmentally-sensitive area," said Lori Mannel with Pacific Grove Museum of Natural History. "The city is in a tough position," she added.
The issue will be discussed in the next city council meeting. According to the city's code, removing trees in the Monarch Grove Sanctuary is not allowed unless the city decides its absolutely necessary for public safety.
