🦋
The monarch butterfly migration is one of nature's most spectacular phenomena. Understanding this journey begins with being able to accurately identify these extraordinary insects.
Identifying Monarch Butterflies
Adults: Brilliant orange wings with black veining and white-spotted black borders. Wingspan 3.5–4 inches. Males have a distinctive black spot (scent patch) on each hindwing. Use our Insect Identifier to distinguish monarchs from the similar-looking viceroy butterfly.
Supporting Monarch Populations
Monarch populations have declined by over 80% since the 1990s, primarily due to milkweed loss. Monarchs can only lay eggs on milkweed (Asclepias species) — their larvae's sole food source. Planting native milkweed in your garden is one of the most impactful actions you can take.
Try Our Free Tools