Once common in North America, Monarch populations have fallen precipitously in the last few decades. Scientists think this is probably due to loss of habitat, the use of pesticides, and extreme weather resulting from climate change. Monarchs are considered a “threatened” species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

In late September and October Monarchs begin their great migration—one of the longest migrations in the world. They fly anywhere from as far north as Canada, to the Oyamel Forests of Mexico. Despite their declining numbers, they will converge and gather there. Then when the weather warms in the spring, these same monarchs migrate north searching for milkweed—the only plant where they will lay their eggs. Then the eggs hatch as caterpillars, who only feed on this host plant. When the caterpillars mature, they crawl from the milkweed to a secure place like a branch. There they hang upside down and shed their final caterpillar skin to create a chrysalis. Over the next 2 weeks the caterpillar will metamorphose and emerge from the chrysalis as an adult Monarch. There it will sip its first nectar, preparing to make its journey north. This life cycle and migration repeat through 2 or 3 more generations. These generations only live for a few weeks. The last generation, the champion flyers, will live up to 8 months. They will fly south as temperatures cool in the Autumn and return as they warm in Spring. How they navigate their journeys has baffled scientists. It is one of nature’s unsolved mysteries.

Ways You Can Help:

1) Plant milkweed! There are numerous, beautiful blooming varieties available in some nurseries and online at native plant sources like American Meadows or Garden For Wildlife by the National Wildlife Federation.

2) Grow native plants in your yard and garden. Native plants are four times more likely to attract Monarchs and other pollinators than non-natives.

3) Plant strategically so that you have flowers blooming through spring, summer, and fall. This will ensure that Monarchs have nectar-rich food throughout their life cycle, and when they need to fuel up for their long migration.

4) Avoid using pesticides! Not only is monocrop agriculture responsible for the decline of Monarchs and other pollinators, but studies show that American lawns and gardens on average receive more pesticide per acre than commercial agriculture!

For more information about Monarchs search Monarch Watch, which offers Education, Conservation, and Research; the National Wildlife Federation; and see collegeparkmd.gov for The Mayors Monarch Pledge.