A Yale-led study published in Nature Ecology and Evolution reveals that climate change is transforming mountain habitats—once safe havens for butterflies—into ecological traps. The research highlights that two-thirds of butterfly species reside in these vulnerable mountain regions, with 64% of their tropical temperature niches projected to vanish by 2070.

The study, co-led by Yale ecologist Walter Jetz and entomologist Stefan Pinkert, analyzed data from over 12,000 butterfly species worldwide. It found that tropical and subtropical mountains harbor 3.5 times more butterfly diversity than lowlands. However, rising temperatures are shrinking these critical habitats, putting thousands of species at risk of extinction.

“Butterflies’ adaptation to mountain environments may now accelerate their decline,” said Jetz, director of Yale’s Center for Biodiversity and Global Change. Pinkert added that the lack of global insect data leaves conservation efforts poorly equipped to address the crisis.

The study challenges current biodiversity priorities, which focus on vertebrates like birds and mammals, urging greater attention to insects. Researchers emphasized the need for reduced carbon emissions and targeted habitat protection to safeguard butterfly populations.

The findings underscore the urgent need to integrate insects into conservation strategies. Jetz hopes the study, supported by Yale’s Map of Life database, will guide policies to preserve butterfly diversity for future generations.