Endangered Species Facts

Michigan Monkey-flower
(Mimulus glabratus var. michiganensis)

Status: Endangered

Habitat: This plant is found in mucky soil and sand that is saturated or covered by cold, flowing spring water. Nearly all known populations of the monkey-flower occur near present or past shorelines of the Great Lakes.

Why It's Threatened: Recreational and residential development are the main threats to this aquatic and semi-aquatic species. Increased construction along lakes and streams has destroyed monkey-flower habitat, including three known populations of the flower. Because the monkey-flower needs flowing spring water, road construction and other activities that affect water drainage also affect the species. Michigan monkey-flowers now survive at only 12 sites in Michigan. Two-thirds of the plants are on private property.