The butterflies are back

Conservationists at the John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Michigan, are happier than a butterfly just out of its cocoon following the successful release of 1,200 endangered critters into the wild.

🦋 The Poweshiek Skipperling is a tiny species of butterfly that was once common in the Midwest. However, its numbers have dwindled in recent decades, causing the species to become one of the world's rarest butterflies.

• Along with the release of 1,200+ Poweshieks, the zoo also launched a new experience called "Backyard Butterflies," where visitors can engage directly with critters native to Michigan.