Monarchs and Milkweed- a special, crucial relationship

Monarch Butterflies are a delight to see during the warm season. They are an iconic species, easily recognized by their large and vibrant orange wings. Monarchs are also called the “milkweed butterfly.” Monarchs are an important pollinator of wild flowers throughout much of the year. They add much color, beauty, and wonder to our world.

These tiny creatures have the most highly evolved migratory pattern of any known species of their kind. This, the largest semi-annual insect multigenerational migration in the world, is one of the most spectacular on our planet. A single journey may cover over 3,000 miles from their hibernation grounds in Central Mexican Mountains to their breeding grounds somewhere in North America. This migration is not only unique; but, it is a vital pollinator requirement for wild flowers along their migratory route.

Spring migration, from their wintering hibernation grounds, begins in late February. Upon reaching their summer breeding grounds in North America, they search out milkweed plants on which to feed and lay their eggs. The milkweed plant is generally the only plant that Monarchs will lay their eggs on. A single egg is laid on the underside of multiple milkweed leaves. When the young caterpillars emerge, they feed on the milkweed plant by chewing veraciously on the leaves. The substance that drips from injured or broken leaves resembles a drop of whole milk, therefore the name “milkweed.” Milkweed plants are necessary for a young caterpillar to feed on before it is ready to spin its cocoon and emerge as a new generation Monarch Butterfly.

Between August and September swarms of Monarch Butterflies congregate to begin their long flight south to their winter hibernation forests. This completes a single year cycle to be repeated the following spring.

Having said these things, current statistics on the condition of the Monarch Butterflies are grim. This unique migration phenomenon is currently under severe threat. Scientists have been reporting staggeringly low numbers of monarch butterflies that migrated to Mexico, partially due to the eradication of milkweed across North America.

Climate change, including warmer summers, widespread droughts or excessive rainfall, marginalization of milkweed habitats, expansion of farm fields on wild flower fields, and use of noxious pesticides and chemicals threatens the very existence of Monarch butterflies. Recent observations have shown that the number of monarch butterflies wintering in Mexico was at its lowest in 20 years. Monarchs are unable to reproduce as they have in the past.

We can each help. Over 100 host milkweed species are native to North America. Common milkweed, red milkweed, and butterflyweed are some plants one may consider planting in available spaces. Look for additional information at a local garden store or on the internet.

We can expand the range of milkweed plants by collecting or purchasing milkweed seeds and broadcast or plant seeds in areas where these plants are scarce or no longer exist. The use of pesticides should be avoided whenever possible. Our job is to love the land and preserve it for future generations. Thank you for whatever you are able to do.