In North America they make massive southward migrations starting in August until the first frost. A northward migration takes place in the spring. The monarch is the only butterfly that migrates both north and south as the birds do, but no single individual makes the entire round trip. Female monarchs deposit eggs for the next generation during these migrations.
By the end of October, the population east of the Rocky Mountains migrates to sanctuaries in central México. The western population overwinters in various sites in southern California, notably in Pacific Grove and Santa Cruz. For a lengthy but interesting article see Wikipedia.
Beautiful and interesting.
ReplyDeleteWe don't have Monarch's here in Scotland - they are a butterfly that I always admire on the internet - its wings are like the patterns of stained glass windows.
ReplyDeleteAwesome! Great shot!
ReplyDeleteThe Monarch always brings back pleasant memories of fall days.
ReplyDeleteThat's just a great shot all around. The flowers are beautiful.
ReplyDeleteWow! That's a great shot. I have never been able to capture butterflies up close.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the information, too.
Mabuhay from the Philippines!
The whole migration thing just fascinates me. They look very ill equipped to travel such long distances. The fact that it takes several generations to make the trip is a marvel.
ReplyDeleteAwesome photo. I love the Monarch..such a beautiful butterfly!
ReplyDeletea beautiful shot!
ReplyDeleteAs always, a beautiful picture and fascinating post - thanks Bill.
ReplyDeleteGorgeous shot!
ReplyDeletea beautiful photo!
ReplyDeleteLovely shot, Bill. It has a clarity I die for!
ReplyDeleteWhat a sad life for such a beautiful creature. Thanks for explaining that, I never knew butterflies migrate.
ReplyDeleteGreat shot!! I always have a tough time getting a butterfly to hold still long enough I can get it framed and focused like I want it.
ReplyDeleteGreat picture! I just saw a (pack? group?) of Monarch butterflies, made my day
ReplyDelete