A Year in Review 2025

Time Flies

Protecting One of Nature's Most Extraordinary MigrationsEach fall, millions of monarch butterflies journey across North America–yet fewer reach their destination each year. Habitat loss, climate pressures, and changing landscapes are putting this migration at risk. At the Southwest Monarch Study (SWMS), we are committed to protecting this remarkable species. With your support, we conduct research, restore habitat, and engage communities to ensure monarchs continue to grace our skies for generations to come

A Breakthrough Year for Monarch Science

We're #1

SWMS was the first in Arizona to test BlüMorpho radio tags on monarchs in Arizona. This fall, we tagged 20 monarchs across Scottsdale, Cave Creek, Camp Verde, Buckeye, and Tucson–and you can track their flights on the Project Monarch App. Every monarch receives a blue SWMS paper tag, but only a select few meet the weight and wing condition requirements for radio tagging. Learn more about Project Monarch: https://swmonarchs.org/ProjectMonarch.php

Highlights From 2025

• Participated in the Western Monarch Movement working group, expanding radio-tagging efforts and Motus tracking networks across the Southwest.
• Accepted an invitation to join Project Monarch Collaboration, an international initiative advancing the science of radio-tracking migrating monarchs.
• Strengthened partnerships with federal, state, and local conservation agencies
• Presented Southwest Monarch Study research as featured speakers at major conferences:
• Monarch Joint Venture's North American Monarch Summit in Minneapolis
• Monarch Science Symposium in Lawrence, Kansas
• Arizona Monarch Collaborative in Phoenix
• Educated the public through programs at conservation organizations, garden clubs, and schools.
• Hosted monarch and pollinator outreach tables at state, county, and city nature events

Radio tags are powerful–but costly. The next-generation Blu+ radio tags cost $200 each, plus $25 for Motus registration and monthly tracking fees. With federal grants no longer available to help cover these expenses, your donation directly fuels this groundbreaking work.

Your gift makes an immediate impact:

• $5 covers a month of tracking for one Blu+ tag
• $20 supports Motus registration
• Any amount helps us purchase a $200 Blu+ tag

For 22 years, SWMS has thrived because of dedicated community scientists and supporters like you. Thank you for helping us protect monarchs–and for giving future generations the chance to witness their incredible journey.

Donate Today!

Online (PayPal or Venmo):

https://swmonarchs.org/support.php

Or mail a check to:
Southwest Monarch Study
(email us for mailing address info@swmonarchs.org )

Thank you for your generosity and continuing support. As always, please feel free to contact us at info@swmonarchs.org with your questions.

With gratitude,

Gail Morris
Southwest Monarch Study Coordinator
https://swmonarchs.org/leadershipteam.php

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