A biosphere reserve in Michoacán is named for these creatures that turn the forests orange & black every November
The Final Jeopardy clue for Tuesday, March 25, 2025, came from the category “Migrations.” The clue read: “A biosphere reserve in Michoacán is named for these creatures that turn the forests Orange & Black every November.”
What are monarch butterflies?
Monarch butterflies are among the most well-known migratory insects in the world. Every fall, millions of them travel up to 3,000 miles from Canada and the United States to their overwintering grounds in central Mexico. This long-distance migration is unique among butterflies and has become a subject of extensive scientific research and environmental education.
The sight of monarchs clustering on trees in Mexico is a striking visual experience. When they arrive in the fir and pine forests of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, particularly in the state of Michoacán, they cover the trees so densely that the forest appears to be draped in vibrant shades of orange and black. This remarkable spectacle has made their wintering area a destination for ecotourism and a symbol of biodiversity.
The Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve
In recognition of the importance of this migration, UNESCO designated the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve a World Heritage Site in 2008. The reserve, located in the mountains of central Mexico, spans over 56,000 hectares and serves as a critical habitat for monarchs during the winter months.
The reserve includes several protected areas, such as El Rosario and Sierra Chincua, where visitors can witness the butterflies in their natural environment. Conservation efforts in the region aim to balance environmental preservation with the needs of local communities who rely on the land for agriculture and tourism.
Environmental Concerns and Conservation Efforts
While the migration of monarchs is awe-inspiring, it is also under threat. Deforestation, climate change, and the widespread use of herbicides in North America have significantly reduced the availability of milkweed—the only plant monarch caterpillars eat—and degraded the forests that serve as their winter sanctuary.
Conservation programs across North America are working to protect this species by encouraging the planting of milkweed, reducing pesticide use, and supporting forest management in Mexico. Cross-border cooperation among Canada, the United States, and Mexico has been key to addressing these challenges and ensuring the monarchs’ survival.
Why the Clue Matters
The Final Jeopardy clue highlights one of nature’s most dramatic migrations and calls attention to an ecological phenomenon that has both cultural and environmental significance. The monarch butterfly’s journey is not just a biological marvel but also a symbol of the interconnectedness of ecosystems across countries.
By including this clue in a high-profile quiz show, Jeopardy! helped shine a light on the importance of conservation and the need to protect migratory species. The monarch butterfly continues to serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between human activity and the natural world.