Michigan Butterfly Network
The Michigan Butterfly Network is a butterfly conservation program of the Kalamazoo Nature Center based in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Our primary function is as a community science-based butterfly monitoring initiative involving partner cities across the state. Since 2011, community scientists (people like you!) have been gathering vital data on our local butterfly populations.
Butterflies are powerful indicators of the quality and health of ecosystems. Sensitive to land use and habitat changes, many of our butterfly species have been declining in abundance due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and climate change. We must monitor both common and rare butterflies during the summer months and we need your help!
Our Mission
The Michigan Butterfly Network seeks to assess the changing population status of our state’s butterfly species, evaluate the quality of Michigan ecosystems, and engage the Michigan public in significant community science research.
Many Michigan butterfly species have drastically declined in numbers due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and climate change. In order to gain insight on butterfly population patterns and trends, we need to monitor butterflies in the field when they are most active. If you are interested in this vital citizen science initiative, please register for our spring training sessions.
This project would not be possible without the involvement of partner organizations across Michigan. The Michigan Butterfly Network is always looking to extend its reach within the state to gain a more accurate account of the butterfly populations. We welcome partner organizations across Michigan to join us in an effort to conserve our local butterfly populations.
Volunteer
At the Kalamazoo Nature Center, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Whether they’re lending a hand with a special event, helping care for the land, or supporting educational programs, we offer a wide variety of volunteer opportunities.
Community Science
As a Community Scientist, people of all ages and experience levels help gather different kinds of data about nature. This data is used to advance research, advise land managers, and inform policy makers to understand our changing climate, the health of our natural resources, and the quality of our wildlife habitats.