The Xerces Society is a nonprofit charity organization dedicated to protecting the diversity and abundance of invertebrates, which are animals without backbones, including insects, spiders, and mollusks.
The organization was founded in 1971 by a group of scientists and activists in response to the decline of several butterfly species in the western United States. The society is named after the Xerces Blue butterfly, which was the first butterfly species to go extinct in North America as a result of human activities.
The mission of The Xerces Society is to protect invertebrates and their habitats through scientific research, education, and advocacy. Invertebrates play crucial roles in ecosystems, serving as pollinators, decomposers, and prey for other animals. Many species of invertebrates are also threatened by habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.
The society’s work includes:
- Research: The Xerces Society conducts research on the ecology and conservation of invertebrates, including studies on the impacts of pesticides, habitat restoration, and climate change.
- Conservation: The society develops and implements conservation strategies to protect invertebrates and their habitats. This includes working with farmers, land managers, and other stakeholders to create pollinator habitats and reduce pesticide use.
- Education: The Xerces Society provides educational resources and training programs for farmers, gardeners, and other members of the public on the importance of invertebrates and how to protect them.
- Advocacy: The society advocates for policies and regulations that protect invertebrates and their habitats. This includes working with lawmakers and agencies to promote the use of sustainable agriculture practices and reduce the use of harmful pesticides.
The Xerces Society has a staff of over 50 employees, including scientists, conservationists, and educators. The organization has offices in the United States, Canada, and Mexico and works with partners around the world to protect invertebrates and their habitats. The society also has a membership program that allows individuals to support their work and receive regular updates on their conservation efforts.
The Xerces Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting invertebrates and their habitats through scientific research, education, and advocacy. Their work is crucial for maintaining the diversity and abundance of invertebrates, which are vital components of healthy ecosystems.