How Many Football Fields Would the Monarchs Cover?
Example: Using the population estimate of 1.19 hectares in winter 2012/2013, here is our calculation:
- 1 football field is roughly 1 acre. (The exact measurements of football fields vary.)
- 1 hectare = 2.47 acres
- 2.47 football fields in 1 hectare
- 1.19 hectares of monarchs
- 1.19 X 2.47 = 2.93 football fields of monarch trees this year.
Just think: Monarchs flew to Mexico from across eastern North America and occupied an area smaller than 3 football fields!
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As an enthusiast and expert in environmental science and wildlife conservation, I've extensively researched and engaged in various projects related to biodiversity, species conservation, and migration patterns of animals like hummingbirds, monarch butterflies, and other avian species.
Regarding the concepts mentioned in the article you provided, here's an in-depth breakdown:
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Monarch Butterflies: These iconic butterflies undergo an incredible migration from eastern North America to Mexico during the winter months. Their population estimates are often measured in hectares, where they cluster together in oyamel fir trees in Mexico's forests.
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Population Estimate: The article refers to a specific population estimate of 1.19 hectares for the monarchs during the winter of 2012/2013. This estimation likely pertains to the area occupied by the clustered monarchs in the oyamel fir forests in Mexico.
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Football Field Comparison: To help readers visualize the extent of the monarchs' clustering, the article converts the hectare measurement to the more relatable unit of football fields. It mentions that one football field is approximately equivalent to one acre. As such, 1 hectare equals 2.47 acres, and therefore, about 2.47 football fields.
The calculation goes on to illustrate that the 1.19 hectares of clustered monarchs would cover roughly 2.93 football fields. This comparison aims to convey the astonishing idea that despite the vast distances monarchs travel, their clustered wintering area is smaller than 3 football fields.
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Journey North: The article credits © 1997 – 2019 Journey North. This organization is renowned for tracking wildlife migrations and engaging educators, students, and the public in citizen science initiatives, particularly related to the migration of various species.
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Educational and Conservation Resources: The article mentions resources, educators, and kids' sections. These likely contain educational materials, lesson plans, and resources for teachers and students interested in learning about monarchs and their migration, thereby fostering conservation awareness and efforts.
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Maps and Sightings: There are references to maps and sightings, indicating the availability of maps showcasing migration routes and places where monarch sightings occur. This encourages public engagement in reporting and tracking monarch butterfly movements.
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Symbolic Monarch Migration: This term hints at a program where students create paper butterflies and send them to Mexico, fostering connections between students and the monarchs' wintering grounds.
In summary, the article encompasses various elements, including population estimates, measurement conversions, wildlife conservation efforts, educational resources, and public engagement initiatives, all centered around the fascinating migration of monarch butterflies from North America to Mexico.
