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 A site that is dedicated to the appreciation and awareness of the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) and its host plant, the milkweeds (Asclepias). Did you know? - The North American Monarchs migrate southward, as much as 2,500 miles or more, in the fall to overwintering sites to avoid certain death of freezing temperatures, a phenomenon not matched in the insect world.
- West of the Rockies, they settle in southern California.
- East of the Rockies, they settle in a small section of Oyamel forest in central Mexico.
- These "long lived" migrants have the natural duty of beginning the spring re-population of the entire North American continent up to latitude 50°, the northern range of its host plant, the milkweeds.
- Three generations are required to fully redistribute the Monarchs across the continent.
- Along the way, they require nectar, but most importantly, they require milkweed, the only food that their caterpillars can live on.
- Numbers of Monarchs making it to Mexico are decreasing annually (subsequently, less are available to begin the journey north to re-populate).
- Milkweeds are being mowed down all over the country by urban sprawl and community "beautification".
What can you do? - Grow plants rich in nectar to feed hungry breeding adult monarchs.
- Plant milkweed, several of which are not aggressive spreaders.
- Spread the word for others to do the same.
- Follow the links and resources provided to learn more about this natural phenomenon that is in danger of future collapse.
Slogan: "Plant a milkweed, host a monarch" |
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