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Monarch Butterfly Migration Map

The Monarch butterfly migration is one of the most remarkable natural phenomena in the insect world. Monarch butterflies undertake a long and complex migration that spans thousands of miles across North America.

Here’s an overview of their migration routes:

Eastern Population

Spring Migration:

Monarchs that overwintered in the mountainous oyamel fir forests of Central Mexico begin to move northwards in spring. They travel through Texas and other Southern states, where they lay eggs on milkweed plants. Subsequent generations continue the journey north into the U.S. Midwest and Eastern Canada.

Fall Migration:

In the fall, a special “super generation” of Monarchs is born, capable of flying all the way back to Mexico. They travel south, passing through the Midwest and the Southern states, returning to the same forests in Mexico where their ancestors overwintered.

Western Population

Spring Migration:

Monarchs that overwintered along the California coast begin to move eastwards and northwards in spring, spreading into the Western U.S. states.-

Fall Migration:

In the fall, the Western population travels back to the coastal areas of California, where they overwinter.

Map

These routes are not strictly defined, as Monarchs may follow varying pathways based on environmental conditions, availability of milkweed, and other factors.

Challenges and Conservation

The Monarch migration is threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and the decline of milkweed plants, which are essential for reproduction. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and restore these vital migration pathways, recognizing the ecological importance and sheer wonder of the Monarch butterfly’s journey. Monarchs need more help than these conservation efforts can afford.

Monarch Butterflies need each person to… Plant More Milkweed!