The lifespan of a Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) varies depending on the generation and time of year.
Brush-footed Butterflies (Nymphalidae)
Brush-footed Butterflies include Monarchs, Emperors, Admirals, Tortoiseshells, and Fritillaries, and nearly 6000 other species.
Butterfly Heavyweight Champion Showdown: The Monarch vs. The Viceroy
In one corner, wearing its orange and black, the reigning champion, the Monarch Butterfly! And in the other corner, the spunky up-and-comer wearing a strikingly similar ensemble, the Viceroy Butterfly!
The Queen Butterfly: An Intricate Dance with Its Larval Host Plant
The relationship between the Queen Butterfly (Danaus gilippus) and its larval host plant stands as an exceptional testament to this delicate balance. This bond between an insect and plant has shaped the evolution, lifecycle, and survival strategies of both species
Monarch Butterfly Haiku
1. Veil of orange, gold, Journeying under the sun, Monarch’s flight unfolds. 2. Milkweed’s sweet embrace, Caterpillar’s feast begins, Life’s thread interlaced. 3. Chrysalis whispers, In stillness, transformation, New life delivers. 4. Wings touch sky and bloom, Monarchs, nature’s poetry, Dance in summer’s room.
Is the Monarch Butterfly Endangered?
The Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) has been determined to be a “candidate to be listed as Endangered” by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Species Status Assessment (SSA) Framework.
Monarch Caterpillars: A Delicate Balance of Survival and Loss
Life, in its beautiful and often brutal entirety, can often be likened to the metamorphosis of a butterfly. A symbol of change, hope, and resilience, butterflies embody nature’s grace and tenacity. However, their journey is not an easy one, filled with challenges and predators, especially for the vulnerable caterpillars. Understanding […]
Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle Timeline
The Monarch Butterfly lifecycle is broken down into four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult butterfly. Here is the timeline for each.
How Long do Monarch Eggs Take to Hatch?
How long do monarch eggs take to hatch?