Nova Scotia has just added another 11 species to its list of those at risk.
Among the new additions is the Monarch butterfly, which is now considered endangered.
It spends winters in Mexico and summers further north, including Nova Scotia.
Executive Director at Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute Amanda Lavers says the Monarch’s habitat is being destroyed.
“It’s sad to see them added to the list. But it helps us to prioritize which wildlife needs the most help from Nova Scotians and Canadians.”
Lavers says people can pitch in by planting milkweed in their gardens to help provide a safe breeding ground for the Monarch butterfly.
The bank swallow has also been added to Nova Scotia’s endangered list.
Lavers says land development and people’s desire to live near water is destroying the swallow’s habitat.
“It is pretty hard to convince people to try to keep things natural but it really does have an impact on wildlife. It’s kind of simple advice, but it’s true.”
Lavers suggests resisting the urge to build using concrete or stone along shorelines.
Instead, allow the banks to remain as they are so the bank swallow can build their homes.
***Photo courtesy of Mersey Tobiatic Research Institute
