Are collectors responsible for the decline in butterflies?
Generally no. Even if every adult butterfly is captured on sight, it is almost impossible to eradicate a healthy population. Collecting butterflies is generally a harmless activity and can be very educational. It also provides range and distribution information. Many scientists got their start as a child with a butterfly net. Unfortunately, a person with a butterfly net is very visible and makes an easy target while much more threatening activities such as unchecked development and pesticide use continues. A very localized colony of a rare species could be eliminated by collecting. These species are usually protected by law. The Lepidopterists’ Society has a policy statement on collecting ethics which should be followed by collectors. Butterfly gardening, photography, and watching are rewarding activities for those who do not collect.
