Monarch Butterflies: Color and Learn
Did you know?
• Monarch butterflies have two sets of wings and a wingspan of three to four inches.
• Monarchs are migratory insects. They travel great distances between their summer
breeding habitat and winter habitat.
• Monarchs have co-evolved with native milkweed species and rely upon it to complete
their life cycle. Adult monarchs lay their eggs on the native milkweed and the
emerging caterpillars eat it. A toxin found in the milkweed protects the caterpillars.
• Adults monarchs feed on nectar from a wide range of blooming native plants,
including milkweed.
• The monarch population has declined by approximately 90 percent since the 1990s.
How can you help?
• Create a monarch habitat garden. Provide native milkweed,
native blooming plants, water, and cover.
• Only plant milkweed that is native to your area.
• Avoid spraying pesticides in your yard. Monarchs are insects,
spraying pesticides will kill them.
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