The Last Butterflies

A remarkable look at the rarest butterflies, how global changes threaten their existence, and how we can bring them back from near-extinction.

Most of us have heard of such popular butterflies as the Monarch or Painted Lady. But what about the Fender's Blue? Or the St. Francis' Satyr? Because of their extreme rarity, these butterflies are not well-known, yet they are remarkable species with important lessons to teach us. The Last Butterflies spotlights the rarest of these creatures - some numbering no more than what can be held in one hand. Drawing from his own first-hand experiences, Nick Haddad explores the challenges of tracking these vanishing butterflies, why they are disappearing, and why they are worth saving.

Haddad illustrates the race against time to reverse the decline of butterfly species, and he provides startling insights into the effects of human activity and environmental change on the planet's biodiversity. A moving account of extinction, recovery, and hope, The Last Butterflies demonstrates the great value of these beautiful insects to science, conservation, and people.

'A powerful study of what a declining insect population reveals about how we are treating the planet. . . . [A] fine and compelling book.' - Jules Pretty, Times Higher Education

'A valuable lens on the biodiversity crisis.' - Barbara Kiser, Nature

'There are heroes in this story, and Haddad does a wonderful job of celebrating them.' - Jonathan Hahn, Sierra

'Haddad eloquently argues that conserving butterflies is not about preserving an organism or habitat in aspic-that way lies stagnation and decline-it's about enabling a dynamic and resilient environment.' - Richard Jones, BBC Wildlife Magazine