Why Invertebrates?
Invertebrates eclipse all other forms of life on earth by sheer numbers and diversity. Whether measured in terms of biomass or species, invertebrates constitute 90 to 95 percent of animal life on earth. Insects make up the bulk of all invertebrates, including beetles, bees, true bugs, flies, ants, dragonflies, grasshoppers, moths, and butterflies. In addition, an amazing array of other invertebrate organisms exists: spiders, centipedes, mites, scorpions, crabs, lobsters, worms, snails, clams, squid, starfish, sea urchins, sponges, and protozoans.

The interactions of invertebrates form the biological foundation of all ecosystems: invertebrates cycle nutrients, pollinate crops and other plants, disperse seeds, maintain soil structure and fertility, exert control over populations of other organisms, and provide a major food source. In short, they supply vital ecological services to the human population.

Our History
For the three decades since its inception in 1971, the Society has been at the forefront of invertebrate conservation, harnessing the knowledge of scientists and the enthusiasm of local citizens to implement education and conservation programs. Past accomplishments include:
· protecting overwintering habitat of monarch butterflies in California;
· working with local villagers in Costa Rica to conserve forests by establishing butterfly farms;
· collaborating in biodiversity research and training that helped create the Masoala National Park in Madagascar.

By harnessing the knowledge of scientists, the resources of our members and participating foundations, and the enthusiasm of concerned citizens, we fight for invertebrates and their habitat.

Read about the Birth of The Xerces Society, by Robert Michael Pyle

Current Programs
Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Biomonitoring. We provide policymakers with information, assistance, and materials that will lead to better management strategies for forests, streams and rivers. Our focus is to apply the technique of bioassessment at a grass-roots level and help interested citizen groups to become involved with the science and management of their watersheds.

Pollinator Conservation. We work with people from all walks of life to help them better understand the insects that pollinate flowers in urban neighborhoods, farms, and wild places. Our outreach efforts give the public the confidence and skills to protect these important creatures.

Protecting Endangered Invertebrates. We collaborate with scientists, land managers, and conservationists to raise awareness about the plight of invertebrates and to gain protection for the most vulnerable species before they decline to a level at which recovery is impossible.

Publications. Our publications feature the work of renowned wildlife photographers, scientists, conservationists, and writers. Twice a year we publish the magazine Wings: Essays on Invertebrate Conservation. We have produced books, CD-ROMs, on-line resources, and fact sheets.

California Monarch Butterfly Conservation Campaign. The Xerces Society, in cooperation with other conservation groups in California, is reinvigorating our effort to protect the sites at which monarchs thrive, migrate among, and overwinter in California and other locations along the West Coast.

The DeWind Award. Each year we provide two graduate or undergraduate students with an award of $3,750 each for Lepidoptera research/conservation projects. This award was made possible by the generosity of Bill DeWind, husband of longtime Xerces supporter and pioneering member Joan Mosenthal DeWind.

Xerces Staff