Common plant names can be confusing, especially when you have Pokeweed and Poke Milkweed which look and sound alike but are not in the same plant family and serve very different uses. |
 American Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana). Fruits of Pokeweed As the fruits on Pokeweed ripen, the stem turns a bright reddish pink and the berries turn black. Flowers of Poke Milkweed Poke Milkweed has downward facing petals and the inflorescence (flower head) is more round rather than tubular. Milkweed Fruits or Pods Milkweeds do not have berries like Pokeweed but large pods that contain seeds. |  American Pokeweed does not have petals that face downwards like many milkweeds do.  CAUTION: The berries of Pokeweed are extremely toxic and some people develop skin irritation just from touching the berries. Always use gloves when handling. These berries also provide a food source for songbirds who have immunity to the toxin.  Close-up image of Poke Milkweed |
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Yellow aphids can appear in large colonies and are often a terrifying sight as they devour milkweed plants. They are a non-native insect and they can multiply very quickly. However, they are not a direct threat to monarch caterpillars because they feed on the milkweed plant only. They can indirectly affect caterpillar health by depleting nutrients in their only host plant.
Remember, the key to a healthy habitat is a high diversity of insects and plants. We do not recommend using insecticides because they will kill much more than the aphids and most likely your monarch larvae as well. Therefore, we will recommend the safest methods to eliminating aphids while keeping Monarchs and other beneficial insects in your habitat.
Oleander aphid infestation on Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca)
What are oleander aphids?
The oleander aphid (Aphis nerii), sometimes called the milkweed aphid, is a common pest of milkweed plants. It is a non-native bug, most likely originating in the Mediterranean region where it's principal host plant, oleander, grows.
The Oleander aphid is a bright yellow insect with black legs, and stalks known as cornicles on the back of the abdomen.
The Oleander aphid is a bright yellow insect with black legs, and stalks known as cornicles on the back of the abdomen.
Method One: Manual Removal
Although, time-consuming, the safest way to remove aphids is manually by squishing them between your fingers (use gloves to avoid staining your fingers) and then using a hose to dislodge them from the plant. Always check for monarch eggs and caterpillars before spraying because you could damage or dislodge them in the process as well.
It is best to catch the aphids before they become an aphid army, so even if there are just a few on the plant, remove immediately.
It is best to catch the aphids before they become an aphid army, so even if there are just a few on the plant, remove immediately.
Method Two: "Contact Only"
This is a method recommended by Monarch Watch and was shared by Vic Jost @ Jost Greenhouses through Elliott Duemler at Taylor Creek Nursery. A mild solution of dish soap and water will also work.
• 1 part (e.g. 1 oz) Blue Dawn
• 1 part Isopropyl Alcohol
• 1 part white vinegar
• 128 parts (e.g. 1 gal) water
"Contact only" means that the insects have to have the mixture applied directly to their body for it to work.
*Use caution with this method because it will also kill monarch larvae if they come in contact with the solution. Rinse the plant when finished so you do not injure monarch larvae and other beneficial insects.
• 1 part (e.g. 1 oz) Blue Dawn
• 1 part Isopropyl Alcohol
• 1 part white vinegar
• 128 parts (e.g. 1 gal) water
"Contact only" means that the insects have to have the mixture applied directly to their body for it to work.
*Use caution with this method because it will also kill monarch larvae if they come in contact with the solution. Rinse the plant when finished so you do not injure monarch larvae and other beneficial insects.
Sources
Monarch Joint Venture
https://monarchjointventure.org/resources/faq/aphids-on-milkweed
Monarch Watch
http://support.milkweedmarket.org/kb/article/359-how-do-i-treat-milkweed-plants-that-have-aphids/
Natural History of Orange County and nearby places.
http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/hemipt/OleanderAphid.htm
https://monarchjointventure.org/resources/faq/aphids-on-milkweed
Monarch Watch
http://support.milkweedmarket.org/kb/article/359-how-do-i-treat-milkweed-plants-that-have-aphids/
Natural History of Orange County and nearby places.
http://nathistoc.bio.uci.edu/hemipt/OleanderAphid.htm
Gardens, lawns, fields, roadsides, right-of-ways all provide vital habitat for monarchs and other pollinators. How we manage this habitat must be done with care to help protect our monarchs!
Mowing too frequently or when it is poorly timed can be detrimental to the monarch population. However, according to a recent article in the Global Ecology and Conservation, strategic mowing can be beneficial to monarch populations when it produces young milkweed plants at the right time.
The key to understanding when to mow is knowing when the monarchs are present in your area so you can better time your land management practices. For instance, if mowing occurs when there are monarch eggs, larvae or adults present on the milkweed, this will have a negative impact on monarch populations. This also applies to other land management practices such as controlled burns, targeted pesticide application and grazing.
The following recommendations will help you to time your land management practices so that the least amount of harm is done to our monarch populations.
For more information, read Mowing and Management: Best Practices for Monarchs by Monarch Joint Venture.
When are monarchs present in my area?
Journey North reported Monarch sightings
Timing is crucial when planning your mowing and other land management practices. To find out where the monarchs are, you can view up-to-date monarch observations at Journey North or Western Monarch Milkweed Mapper.
Remember that this will vary each year.
In addition, you can conduct your own survey by checking your milkweed patch/field daily.
Once you understand where the monarchs are and when they will be visiting your habitat, you can create a strategic mowing plan.
Remember that this will vary each year.
In addition, you can conduct your own survey by checking your milkweed patch/field daily.
Once you understand where the monarchs are and when they will be visiting your habitat, you can create a strategic mowing plan.
Monarch butterflies are often observed in the grasslands of Floyd Bennett Field. NPS Photo
Limit the frequency of your mowing
Mowing milkweed mid-summer in areas where there is a lull in monarch activity, such as the Southern Great Plains, may promote milkweed growth and late summer or early fall breeding (Baum and Mueller 2015; Fischer et al. 2015). Always, do a quick survey for monarchs before mowing and check Journey North's website to see where the monarch is in their migration.
Leave a pollinator refuge area
Instead of mowing the entire area, leave refuge areas that may be good for nesting or overwintering sites for pollinators and other wildlife. If necessary, make a sign that indicates that site is an overwintering refuge.
Avoid mowing milkweed and blooming flowers
Blooming flowers provide essential nectar sources for pollinators. In addition, check to see if the flowers have began dispersing their seeds.
Increase your cutting height
Increasing your cutting height by a few inches will remove the seed heads of the invasive plants while still providing some habitat for other bugs and pollinators to thrive.
Sources
Fischer, S. J., Williams, E. H., Brower, L. P., & Palmiotto, P. A. (2015). Enhancing monarch butterfly reproduction by mowing fields of common milkweed. The American Midland Naturalist, 229-240.
Chicago
Habitat Enhancement and Best Management Practices in Highway Rights-of-Way.” Prepared by The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation in collaboration with ICF International. 68 pp. Washington, D.C.: Federal Highway Administration.
Journey North. journeynorth.org/monarchs
Knight, S. M., Norris, D. R., Derbyshire, R., & Flockhart, D. T. (2019). Strategic mowing of roadside milkweeds increases monarch butterfly oviposition. Global Ecology and Conservation, 19, e00678.
Chicago
Monarch Joint Venture. Mowing and Management: Best Practices for Monarchs.
https://monarchjointventure.org/images/uploads/documents/MowingForMonarchs.pdf
Western Monarch Milkweed Mapper. https://www.monarchmilkweedmapper.org/
Chicago
Habitat Enhancement and Best Management Practices in Highway Rights-of-Way.” Prepared by The Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation in collaboration with ICF International. 68 pp. Washington, D.C.: Federal Highway Administration.
Journey North. journeynorth.org/monarchs
Knight, S. M., Norris, D. R., Derbyshire, R., & Flockhart, D. T. (2019). Strategic mowing of roadside milkweeds increases monarch butterfly oviposition. Global Ecology and Conservation, 19, e00678.
Chicago
Monarch Joint Venture. Mowing and Management: Best Practices for Monarchs.
https://monarchjointventure.org/images/uploads/documents/MowingForMonarchs.pdf
Western Monarch Milkweed Mapper. https://www.monarchmilkweedmapper.org/
Written by Jennifer Coolie
Supporting the population of our beautiful monarch butterflies goes beyond planting colorful, nectar rich plants. “It’s easy enough to plant species that butterflies like to feed on, but you need to do more than that to support your local populations,” says Butterfly Conservation’s Richard Fox. Monarch butterflies are absolutely wonderful creatures, and need to be well looked after due to their dwindling population. Help make your garden more butterfly friendly by creating water sources for the butterflies to “puddle” in. "
Butterflies can be found sipping moisture from puddles or wet soil after a rain (known as "puddling"). Not only are they being hydrated but they also pick up salts in the process.
Butterflies can be found sipping moisture from puddles or wet soil after a rain (known as "puddling"). Not only are they being hydrated but they also pick up salts in the process.
Monarchs puddling after a rain in their natural environment.
Water’s Role In Survival
Like humans, having a water source is essential to protect monarch butterflies. In the overwhelming heat of the summer, butterflies will gather extra minerals and vitamins through a behavior known as puddling. Through puddling, monarchs will take small drinks in shallow water areas rather than diving into a deeper water source. While it is important to create a butterfly garden rich with nectar plants and flowering shrubs, having a water source in the area is equally essential to promote butterfly survival. Creating a garden with water features that gives the butterflies an opportunity to puddle only helps make your garden space friendlier for future monarch butterfly populations.
The Shallower The Better
When choosing a water feature to help the endangered monarch population, look for multi-level fountains that have one of the levels with a shallow water line. Shallow water is more attractive than deep standing water for butterflies. If you prefer bird baths to fountains, this can still work because butterflies can puddle on the shallow edges of the birdbath. Alternatively, you can also create a butterfly oasis in the middle of a deeper water feature by simply adding in rocks, marbles or pebbles to make a perching paradise for the butterflies to puddle in.
Top Feeders. Photo by Orin Zebest. July 20, 2007.
Other Ways To Boost The Butterflies
If you’re looking to go above and beyond to make a perfect puddle paradise, add minerals to the water source. To supplement your butterfly water source with added minerals, sprinkle in some table salt or composting fruits (in small amounts to avoid polluting the water). Keeping the soil around your water feature damp can help the butterflies, says the Farmer’s Almanac. Finally, keep your butterfly water source in one consistent area so that your monarch friends can keep coming back.
It’s win-win: by placing a water feature in your butterfly garden, both you and the monarch butterfly population will benefit. You hear the tranquil sound of running water while your butterflies receive their essential minerals.
It’s win-win: by placing a water feature in your butterfly garden, both you and the monarch butterfly population will benefit. You hear the tranquil sound of running water while your butterflies receive their essential minerals.
What are host plants?
Host plants are the vital food source that caterpillars live on. Adult butterflies will seek out these plants to lay their eggs on because they know that the caterpillar cannot travel far and will not survive if placed on a plant that they cannot eat.
The key to a successful butterfly garden is to plant both nectar and host plants so that the butterflies will have a food source in all stages of their life cycles. Nectar plants are simply plants that produce nectar as a reproductive strategy. Almost all flowering plants produce nectar and many host plants double as a nectar sources.
Why plant native?
The evolutionary relationship between butterflies and host plants is the main reason for planting native plants in your garden. As a defense mechanism, plants have evolved to produce chemical alkaloids, also known as secondary metabolites, in order to deter herbivory (wildlife feeding on plants). In response, each butterfly species has evolved to be resistant to the toxins of just a small number of plants so their caterpillars have something to feed on.
Few native butterfly species use exotic or non-native plants as their hosts because they haven't created an evolutionary relationship with them. When we plant non-native glasses and exotic ornamentals such as Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii), we often remove the vital food sources for caterpillars and this leads to decreased populations. Ironically, butterfly bush does not serve as a host plant for any native species of caterpillars. To find out which plants are native to your area visit the Native Plants Database.
Be prepared for your plants to be eaten.
It is important to remember that the leaves of these plants will get eaten but that is the whole point! For this reason, it might be a good idea to plant them in less visible areas.
Host plants are the vital food source that caterpillars live on. Adult butterflies will seek out these plants to lay their eggs on because they know that the caterpillar cannot travel far and will not survive if placed on a plant that they cannot eat.
The key to a successful butterfly garden is to plant both nectar and host plants so that the butterflies will have a food source in all stages of their life cycles. Nectar plants are simply plants that produce nectar as a reproductive strategy. Almost all flowering plants produce nectar and many host plants double as a nectar sources.
Why plant native?
The evolutionary relationship between butterflies and host plants is the main reason for planting native plants in your garden. As a defense mechanism, plants have evolved to produce chemical alkaloids, also known as secondary metabolites, in order to deter herbivory (wildlife feeding on plants). In response, each butterfly species has evolved to be resistant to the toxins of just a small number of plants so their caterpillars have something to feed on.
Few native butterfly species use exotic or non-native plants as their hosts because they haven't created an evolutionary relationship with them. When we plant non-native glasses and exotic ornamentals such as Butterfly Bush (Buddleia davidii), we often remove the vital food sources for caterpillars and this leads to decreased populations. Ironically, butterfly bush does not serve as a host plant for any native species of caterpillars. To find out which plants are native to your area visit the Native Plants Database.
Be prepared for your plants to be eaten.
It is important to remember that the leaves of these plants will get eaten but that is the whole point! For this reason, it might be a good idea to plant them in less visible areas.
Black Eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
Aster spp.
Host plant for: Pearl crescent, Painted Lady and more
Coneflower (Echinacea spp.)
Host Plant for: Silvery Checkerspot and more
Hollyhock (Alcea spp.)
Dill (Antheum graveolens)
Host plant for: Black Swallowtail, Anise Swallowtail and more
NOTE: The Black Swallowtail will feed on any plants within the Parsley family.
NOTE: The Black Swallowtail will feed on any plants within the Parsley family.
Sunflower (Helianthus spp.)
Milkweeds (Asclepias spp.)
Host plant for: Monarch
Mallow (Malva spp.)
Violet (Viola spp.)
Host plant for: Great Spangled Fritillary, Variegated Fritillary, Falcate Orangetip, Meadow Fritillary and more
Tall Verbena (Verbena bonariensis)
Host plant for: Common Buckeye, White Peacock and more
Sources
Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants by Douglas W. Tallamy, Publisher: Timber Press; Exp Upd edition (April 1, 2009)
Caterpillars of Eastern North America by David L. Wagner, Publisher: Princeton University Press; 1St Edition edition (August 14, 2005)
Butterflies and Moths of North America
https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org
Native Plant Database
https://www.wildflower.org/plants/
Penn State Extension Office
https://extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/york/maescapes/maescapes-blog/butterfly-larval-host-plant-list
Caterpillars of Eastern North America by David L. Wagner, Publisher: Princeton University Press; 1St Edition edition (August 14, 2005)
Butterflies and Moths of North America
https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org
Native Plant Database
https://www.wildflower.org/plants/
Penn State Extension Office
https://extension.psu.edu/programs/master-gardener/counties/york/maescapes/maescapes-blog/butterfly-larval-host-plant-list
If you have read our Blog on Common Monarch Ailments, you will find that there are many diseases, parasites and infections that can infect Monarch caterpillars. It is a common problem for many Monarch rearers but there are ways to prevent this from happening and also prevent it from spreading. Here is how to prevent disease from spreading once you suspect your Monarch may be infected.
Signs of infection include: discoloration, deformation, blackening, rapid weight loss, prolonged developmental stage (i.e. chrysalis/pupae, 'J' stage etc.)
What You Can Do
1. Isolate Your Caterpillar
If there is a chance of infection, move your caterpillar or chrysalis to an area by itself where it cannot infect other caterpillars. Use a milkweed leaf, gloves or brush to avoid touching the caterpillar directly. If you think you may have touched it, wash your hands afterwards.
TIP: If the caterpillar has reached chrysalis stage and something seems off, you can use a piece of floss or thread to remove the silk pad from the cage and move it to another area.
2. Clean Cage
Once you remove the potentially infected caterpillar, promptly disinfect the entire cage to prevent contamination to other caterpillars. To do this, remove the other cats and place them in a clean holding container until you are finished cleaning the cage. Also, replace old milkweed leaves with fresh leaves.
To disinfect cage you can use a weak bleach solution (about 1 to 10 parts bleach to water) or a natural disinfect such as Meyer's Multi-surface Cleaner. Use a spray bottle or dunk cage in a large tub and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water afterwards and allow to DRY before adding any caterpillars back in.
3. Keep A Close Eye on Your Sick Caterpillar
Check on the caterpillar every 4-6 hours to see if the case worsens. Keep the potentially dangerous Monarch separated until it reaches full metamorphosis to avoid spreading the ailment.
If there is a chance of infection, move your caterpillar or chrysalis to an area by itself where it cannot infect other caterpillars. Use a milkweed leaf, gloves or brush to avoid touching the caterpillar directly. If you think you may have touched it, wash your hands afterwards.
TIP: If the caterpillar has reached chrysalis stage and something seems off, you can use a piece of floss or thread to remove the silk pad from the cage and move it to another area.
2. Clean Cage
Once you remove the potentially infected caterpillar, promptly disinfect the entire cage to prevent contamination to other caterpillars. To do this, remove the other cats and place them in a clean holding container until you are finished cleaning the cage. Also, replace old milkweed leaves with fresh leaves.
To disinfect cage you can use a weak bleach solution (about 1 to 10 parts bleach to water) or a natural disinfect such as Meyer's Multi-surface Cleaner. Use a spray bottle or dunk cage in a large tub and let it sit for about 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with water afterwards and allow to DRY before adding any caterpillars back in.
3. Keep A Close Eye on Your Sick Caterpillar
Check on the caterpillar every 4-6 hours to see if the case worsens. Keep the potentially dangerous Monarch separated until it reaches full metamorphosis to avoid spreading the ailment.
We wanted to share this inspiring story by one of our followers, John Perez, who has helped to create many Monarch educational opportunities within the Montebello Unified School District. We want to encourage all educators and teachers to participate in our Monarch School Program including those involved with 4-H, Scout troops, YMCA and other Community learning centers!
Click here to find out how to get involved with Save Our Monarch's school fundraising program and receive free milkweed packets!
John has worked as a teacher and administrator within the Montebello Unified School District for 24 years. He is an avid environmentalist with a life-long passion for Monarchs and all living things.
When John read about the plummet in Monarch populations, he decided to take action. He said that serendipity allowed the story to unfold.
Initially, he ordered $35.00 worth of seeds with intentions to sell them at $2.00/package in order to raise money for the plight of the Monarch.
A former teacher and colleague invited him to read a book about Monarchs to her class and the word began to spread about his Monarch campaign. He then decided to join forces with his friend who is an actress and they put on a 20-minute musical play about the Monarchs.
They donated 60 Milkweed seedlings to the children in attendance and sprouted 100 mini-planters to donate.
Word of this presentation spread and John was asked by other teachers to share his play. Within 6 months, he worked with 8 separate schools and several classes participated in fundraising as well.
When John read about the plummet in Monarch populations, he decided to take action. He said that serendipity allowed the story to unfold.
Initially, he ordered $35.00 worth of seeds with intentions to sell them at $2.00/package in order to raise money for the plight of the Monarch.
A former teacher and colleague invited him to read a book about Monarchs to her class and the word began to spread about his Monarch campaign. He then decided to join forces with his friend who is an actress and they put on a 20-minute musical play about the Monarchs.
They donated 60 Milkweed seedlings to the children in attendance and sprouted 100 mini-planters to donate.
Word of this presentation spread and John was asked by other teachers to share his play. Within 6 months, he worked with 8 separate schools and several classes participated in fundraising as well.
 |  |
Many teachers and educators have heard of his Monarch campaign and have asked to be included. Bell Gardens Elementary has created a full-scale garden with Milkweed plants and vegetables. A parent/ volunteer has also created an incubation station where eggs are kept safe until they reach adulthood and then released.
At Greenwood Elementary, one teacher and his classroom have created a Pollinator Garden and dispersed 100 Seed Packets.
On behalf of Save Our Monarchs, thank you to ALL of the Monarch educators and teachers!
At Greenwood Elementary, one teacher and his classroom have created a Pollinator Garden and dispersed 100 Seed Packets.
On behalf of Save Our Monarchs, thank you to ALL of the Monarch educators and teachers!
So you've raised your caterpillars to total metamorphosis, now what?
1. Allow the newly emerged adult 3-4 hours to inflate and dry their wings. Do not touch them when their wings are still wet or it may damage them.
2. When the butterflies first emerge, they are quite lethargic and slow-moving for the first few hours. They may just walk onto your finger if you gently nudge their legs. Then, you can carry them outside and place them on a plant.
3. If your butterfly has had more than a few hours and is feeling a bit more active, you will have to hold them differently in order to minimize damage to their wings/scales.
4. Starting with your pointer and middle finger in a scissor-like position, gently hold all four wings as close to their body as possible. This way they will not be able to flap their wings and damage them. Then, carry them outside.
NOTE: Sometimes the weather does not allow you to release your Monarch right away. If is below freezing, raining, hailing, snowing or there are strong gusts of wind, it is best to keep your Monarchs safe inside until this passes. You can feed them fresh cut fruits and/or honey water while they are waiting out the storm.
2. When the butterflies first emerge, they are quite lethargic and slow-moving for the first few hours. They may just walk onto your finger if you gently nudge their legs. Then, you can carry them outside and place them on a plant.
3. If your butterfly has had more than a few hours and is feeling a bit more active, you will have to hold them differently in order to minimize damage to their wings/scales.
4. Starting with your pointer and middle finger in a scissor-like position, gently hold all four wings as close to their body as possible. This way they will not be able to flap their wings and damage them. Then, carry them outside.
NOTE: Sometimes the weather does not allow you to release your Monarch right away. If is below freezing, raining, hailing, snowing or there are strong gusts of wind, it is best to keep your Monarchs safe inside until this passes. You can feed them fresh cut fruits and/or honey water while they are waiting out the storm.
 | In the wild, Monarch eggs and larvae have a very small chance of survival. In fact, studies show that 90% of Monarchs do not survive the egg and larva stages. |
Materials Needed
   | 1. Ventilated container You can now buy these enclosures on our website! You may also use aquariums, deli containers, clothing hampers but make sure they are clean and well-ventilated. 2. Paper towels or Newspapers This is for lining the cage and simplifying clean- 3. Monarch caterpillars or eggs These can be found outside on milkweed plants. Look carefully on the underside of leaves and on flower buds for eggs and larvae. 4. Milkweed This can be grown in your own backyard or bought from a nursery. If you choose to buy from a nursery, make sure you ask if it has been sprayed with any pesticides which can be fatal to monarch caterpillars. Often nurseries will spray all of their plants with pesticides so your best bet is to grow it yourself. Plan for at least one plant per caterpillar. |
5 Steps to Rearing Monarchs
Step 1: Find the eggs and/or caterpillars
 | The best way to do this is to visit milkweed plants daily that you know are already established and ,hopefully, already in your backyard! If you see a Monarch land on your milkweed plant, it is very likely they left an egg behind so check right away. Carefully look on the underside of the leaf, where they often lay eggs. 1st instar caterpillars and eggs are TINY so look very closely. |
Step 2: Bring them inside
 | Once you find a caterpillar or egg, cut off the entire leaf or branch that the egg or caterpillar is on, bring it inside and put it in a glass of water to keep the cutting fresh. Put the eggs or caterpillars in the ventilated container of your choice after lining with newspaper or a rubber mat (for easy clean-up). Eggs only take 4 days to hatch and caterpillars will form a chrysalis within 2 weeks. Caterpillars have a huge appetite and can eat 200X their weight in Milkweed! A single caterpillar can easily defoliate a milkweed planted in a 1 gallon container so plan accordingly. Provide fresh leaves daily or enclose the entire milkweed plant. Larvae will survive best and attain a large size if you keep the food fresh, the container clean, and the humidity low. |
Step 3: Clean the cage regularly
The caterpillars are eating constantly so they will generate a lot of frass (cute name for you know what). This frass should be collected every other day in order to keep the larvae healthy and prevent diseases from spreading. You can simply replace the bottom of the container with more paper towels or newspaper paper for easier clean-up. Just throw the frass into your compost bin to add nitrogen!
Step 4: Keep feeding the hungry caterpillars!
 | It's important to remember that as the caterpillars get bigger, so will their appetite so keep a close eye on them and make sure you are providing enough fresh Milkweed. After the caterpillar reaches it’s 5th instar (molting stage) it will climb to the top of the container and begin spinning it's silk pad. It will not need any food at this stage so your job is mostly done. |
Step 5: Release Your Butterfly Into the Wild
 | The chrysalis will turn clear before the adult butterfly emerges (fully metamorphosed). It is important not to touch them for at least 5 hours so their wings can dry. Keep an eye on the weather and do not release your Monarch if there is a storm on the horizon. You may need to move the butterfly into a larger container if this is the case such as an upside down laundry basket or a mesh cage |
Please note that even in captivity, Monarchs can develop diseases, parasites, bacterial infections and other illnesses. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep a very clean cage that is kept dry and not humid. For a list of common monarch ailments click here.
Furthermore, we do not support large scale monarch breeding operations or the sale of monarch caterpillars. We DO support responsible rearing of monarchs, especially in an educational environment.
Monarch Life Cycle
Egg
Monarchs overwinter in Mexico and certain parts of Southern California. When they wake up from hibernation, they will intuitively head North and East to start laying eggs.
In March and April the eggs are laid on milkweed plants and it takes only 4 days for an egg to hatch!
According to Karen Oberhauser, Monarch biologist, captive monarch butterflies average about 700 eggs per female as opposed to 300-400 in the wild.
Monarch females usually lay a single egg on a milkweed plant on the bottom of leaf. So, when searching for eggs, don't forget to flip the leaf over! Eggs are very small and sometimes easy to miss!
In March and April the eggs are laid on milkweed plants and it takes only 4 days for an egg to hatch!
According to Karen Oberhauser, Monarch biologist, captive monarch butterflies average about 700 eggs per female as opposed to 300-400 in the wild.
Monarch females usually lay a single egg on a milkweed plant on the bottom of leaf. So, when searching for eggs, don't forget to flip the leaf over! Eggs are very small and sometimes easy to miss!
Larval Stage (Caterpillar)
The larval stage last 2 weeks. Once the egg has hatched, a very small (and hungry) caterpillar emerges. During this time, the caterpillar will spend most of it's time eating so it will need fresh leaves everyday. As the caterpillar grows and becomes too large for its skin, it molts. The intervals between molts are called instars. Monarchs go through 5 instars. Click here if you'd like to learn more about differentiating the different instars.
Pupa (Chrysalis)
 The chrysalis is green with a golden diadem at first. |  The chrysalis turns clear within 24 hours of opening. |
Once the Monarch larvae has reached the final molting stage, they will hang upside down by their last pair of prolegs and create a chrysalis. They will spend between 1 and 2 weeks inside this chrysalis.
Adult Butterfly
Once adults, Monarchs will live another two to six weeks in the summer. However, the last generation of super Monarchs that complete the migration much longer, about six to nine months.
Resources
Special thanks to Debbie Jackson of Monarch Watch for sharing her passion of rearing Monarchs
We also recommend Carol Pasternak's How to Raise Monarch Butterflies, an in-depth guide on Monarch rearing
Kelly R. Nail, Carl Stenoien, Karen S. Oberhauser, Immature Monarch Survival: Effects of Site Characteristics, Density, and Time, Annals of the Entomological Society of America, Volume 108, Issue 5, September 2015, Pages 680–690, https://doi.org/10.1093/aesa/sav047
University of Minnesota Monarch Lab. Monarch Life Cycle.
https://monarchlab.org/biology-and-research/biology-and-natural-history/breeding-life-cycle/life-cycle/#adult
Ecology Online Sweden. 2004-2012.
http://www.ecology.info/monarch-butterfly-page-3.htm
We also recommend Carol Pasternak's How to Raise Monarch Butterflies, an in-depth guide on Monarch rearing
Kelly R. Nail, Carl Stenoien, Karen S. Oberhauser, Immature Monarch Survival: Effects of Site Characteristics, Density, and Time, Annals of the Entomological Society of America, Volume 108, Issue 5, September 2015, Pages 680–690, https://doi.org/10.1093/aesa/sav047
University of Minnesota Monarch Lab. Monarch Life Cycle.
https://monarchlab.org/biology-and-research/biology-and-natural-history/breeding-life-cycle/life-cycle/#adult
Ecology Online Sweden. 2004-2012.
http://www.ecology.info/monarch-butterfly-page-3.htm
There are more than 20 butterflies and moths listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service!
The main reason for these butterflies being placed under the Endangered Species Act is mainly due to loss of habitat (agriculture, commercial, residential). However, other reasons include: poor land management practices, excessive use of pesticides and herbicides, and loss of the butterfly's host plant that is necessary for it's growth and development.
If faced with the risk of extinction, any species can be put under the protection of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). They are placed either as "threatened" and "endangered". To clarify those two terms: an “endangered” species is one that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. A “threatened” species is one that could become endangered in the near future.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service received a petition to list the Monarch butterfly under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) on August 26, 2014. The status is currently under review and will be released by June 2019.
Note: These butterflies are all listed as "Endangered" under the Endangered Species Act. The list is not exhaustive and the complete list can be found on the USFWS ECOS site here.
Karner blue butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host plant: Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis)
Historical Range: Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin.
History and Description: The Karner blue butterfly was first described more than a century ago in Karner, New York. It is a small butterfly, with a wingspan of about one inch. The male's wings are distinctively marked with a silvery or dark blue color. The female is grayish brown, especially on the outer portions of the wings, to blue on the topside, with irregular bands of orange crescents inside the narrow black border. (ECOS- Environmental Conservation Online System)
While adult Karner blues feed on a variety of plants, wild lupine is the only known food plant for their larvae. Without wild lupine the cycle of life for this butterfly would be broken. Lupines are adapted to particular environmental conditions. The plants required by the larvae of the Karner blue, are found in savanna, barrens, and dune habitats which were once quite extensive. However, like many other places the habitats of the Karner blue have been subject to extensive development with a resulting decline in the butterfly. (USFWS Podcast Dave Harrelson)
Host plant: Wild lupine (Lupinus perennis)
Historical Range: Illinois, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin.
History and Description: The Karner blue butterfly was first described more than a century ago in Karner, New York. It is a small butterfly, with a wingspan of about one inch. The male's wings are distinctively marked with a silvery or dark blue color. The female is grayish brown, especially on the outer portions of the wings, to blue on the topside, with irregular bands of orange crescents inside the narrow black border. (ECOS- Environmental Conservation Online System)
While adult Karner blues feed on a variety of plants, wild lupine is the only known food plant for their larvae. Without wild lupine the cycle of life for this butterfly would be broken. Lupines are adapted to particular environmental conditions. The plants required by the larvae of the Karner blue, are found in savanna, barrens, and dune habitats which were once quite extensive. However, like many other places the habitats of the Karner blue have been subject to extensive development with a resulting decline in the butterfly. (USFWS Podcast Dave Harrelson)
Callippe silverspot butterfly (Speyeria callippe callippe)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host plant: Johnny-jump- up (Viola pedunculata)
Historical Range: California
History: "The callippe silverspot was historically found around the eastern, southern, and western sides of San Francisco Bay, but is now limited to just seven sites. It is found in native grassland and adjacent habitats, where females lay their eggs on the larval food plant, Johnny-jump-up. The causes of the callippe silverspot’s decline are fairly clear: The vast majority of potential butterfly habitat lies under the cities of San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley, and what open areas remain within this butterfly’s range are dominated by introduced plant species. Many of these areas are also grazed by cattle, mined, or subject to heavy recreational use." (Xerxes Society)
Host plant: Johnny-jump- up (Viola pedunculata)
Historical Range: California
History: "The callippe silverspot was historically found around the eastern, southern, and western sides of San Francisco Bay, but is now limited to just seven sites. It is found in native grassland and adjacent habitats, where females lay their eggs on the larval food plant, Johnny-jump-up. The causes of the callippe silverspot’s decline are fairly clear: The vast majority of potential butterfly habitat lies under the cities of San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley, and what open areas remain within this butterfly’s range are dominated by introduced plant species. Many of these areas are also grazed by cattle, mined, or subject to heavy recreational use." (Xerxes Society)
Bartram's hairstreak butterfly (Strymon acis bartrami)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host plant: Pineland croton (Croton linearis)
Range: Florida
History: The Bartram's Hairstreak is a small butterfly approximately 1 inch (in) (25 millimeters (mm)) in length with a forewing length of 0.4 to 0.5 in (10 to 12.5 mm) and has an appearance characteristic of the genus. Despite its rapid flight, this hairstreak is easily observed if present at any density as it alights often, and the brilliance of its grey underside marked with bold white postdiscal lines beneath both wings provides an instant flash of color against the foliage of its hostplant, pineland croton (Croton linearis). (ECOS- USFWS)
Host plant: Pineland croton (Croton linearis)
Range: Florida
History: The Bartram's Hairstreak is a small butterfly approximately 1 inch (in) (25 millimeters (mm)) in length with a forewing length of 0.4 to 0.5 in (10 to 12.5 mm) and has an appearance characteristic of the genus. Despite its rapid flight, this hairstreak is easily observed if present at any density as it alights often, and the brilliance of its grey underside marked with bold white postdiscal lines beneath both wings provides an instant flash of color against the foliage of its hostplant, pineland croton (Croton linearis). (ECOS- USFWS)
Saint Francis' Satyr (Neonympha mitchellii francisci)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host plant(s): Grasses, sedges, and rushes and are usually located in wet meadows
Range: North Carolina.
History: "The Saint Francis’ satyr occurs in the sandhills of Cumberland and Hoke counties, North Carolina, (a single metapopulation) and has a single record in Virginia. Soon after its discovery in the 1980s, it was believed that this butterfly had been collected to extinction, but happily it was rediscovered in 1992. Its habitat is wet meadows, previously likely created by fire or beaver activity, although now mainly maintained by human activity. Despite its protected status, it is still in demand by collectors". (Xerxes Society)
Host plant(s): Grasses, sedges, and rushes and are usually located in wet meadows
Range: North Carolina.
History: "The Saint Francis’ satyr occurs in the sandhills of Cumberland and Hoke counties, North Carolina, (a single metapopulation) and has a single record in Virginia. Soon after its discovery in the 1980s, it was believed that this butterfly had been collected to extinction, but happily it was rediscovered in 1992. Its habitat is wet meadows, previously likely created by fire or beaver activity, although now mainly maintained by human activity. Despite its protected status, it is still in demand by collectors". (Xerxes Society)
San Bruno elfin butterfly (Callophrys mossii bayensis)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host Plant: Sedum spathulifolium. Montara Mountain colonies are suspected to use Montara manzanita (Arctostaphylos montaraensis) and California huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum). (Xerxes Society)
Range: California.
History: Its habitat has been diminished by quarrying, off- road recreation, and urban development. Development pressures on the San Francisco peninsula continue to grow, and the major threats to the butterfly— increased urbanization in the area, and loss of habitat by road construction and rock and sand quarrying—reflect this. Grazing may have encouraged the growth of exotic plants in the area. In the early 1980s, a habitat conservation plan was developed to allow development on San Bruno Mountain while minimizing the adverse effects on the San Bruno elfin butterfly and other rare species in the area. This plan is currently being amended, which may result in further urban development. (Xerxes Society)
Host Plant: Sedum spathulifolium. Montara Mountain colonies are suspected to use Montara manzanita (Arctostaphylos montaraensis) and California huckleberry (Vaccinium ovatum). (Xerxes Society)
Range: California.
History: Its habitat has been diminished by quarrying, off- road recreation, and urban development. Development pressures on the San Francisco peninsula continue to grow, and the major threats to the butterfly— increased urbanization in the area, and loss of habitat by road construction and rock and sand quarrying—reflect this. Grazing may have encouraged the growth of exotic plants in the area. In the early 1980s, a habitat conservation plan was developed to allow development on San Bruno Mountain while minimizing the adverse effects on the San Bruno elfin butterfly and other rare species in the area. This plan is currently being amended, which may result in further urban development. (Xerxes Society)
Miami Blue (Cyclargus thomasi bethunebakeri)
Status: Endangered
Host plant:
Range: Florida Keyes
History: This butterfly is one of the most endangered insects in the world. After Hurricane Andrew in 1992, there were no sightings of this species again until 1999 in Bahia Honda State Park. All known individuals were thought to be gone as of 2010. This leaves only a few scattered individuals in another population in the Marquesas Keys in Key West National Wildlife Refuge. (ECOS- USFWS)
Host plant:
Range: Florida Keyes
History: This butterfly is one of the most endangered insects in the world. After Hurricane Andrew in 1992, there were no sightings of this species again until 1999 in Bahia Honda State Park. All known individuals were thought to be gone as of 2010. This leaves only a few scattered individuals in another population in the Marquesas Keys in Key West National Wildlife Refuge. (ECOS- USFWS)
Schaus swallowtail (Heraclides aristodemus ponceanus)
Status: Endangered
Host plant(s): Torchwood and Wild lime
Range: Florida.
History: Listed on April 28th, 1976 as threatened, the Schaus swallowtail was the first butterfly to be protected under the Endangered Species Act, or ESA as the law is often referred to. This butterfly was originally described by William Schaus in 1911 from specimens collected in the south Miami area in 1898. The butterfly was originally distributed in southern Florida’s tropical hardwood hammocks from south Miami to Lower Matacumbe Key. Hardwood hammocks are a type of forest that is on ground that is slightly elevated above the surrounding landscape. These forests are essential for the survival of the butterfly. The ongoing loss of habitat and food plants was pushing the Schaus swallowtail even farther toward the brink of extinction. This resulted in the Fish and Wildlife Service reclassifying the butterfly to the more imperiled status of endangered in 1984. (Xerxes Society)
Host plant(s): Torchwood and Wild lime
Range: Florida.
History: Listed on April 28th, 1976 as threatened, the Schaus swallowtail was the first butterfly to be protected under the Endangered Species Act, or ESA as the law is often referred to. This butterfly was originally described by William Schaus in 1911 from specimens collected in the south Miami area in 1898. The butterfly was originally distributed in southern Florida’s tropical hardwood hammocks from south Miami to Lower Matacumbe Key. Hardwood hammocks are a type of forest that is on ground that is slightly elevated above the surrounding landscape. These forests are essential for the survival of the butterfly. The ongoing loss of habitat and food plants was pushing the Schaus swallowtail even farther toward the brink of extinction. This resulted in the Fish and Wildlife Service reclassifying the butterfly to the more imperiled status of endangered in 1984. (Xerxes Society)
Palos verdes blue butterfly (Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensis)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host Plant(s): Milkvetch and deerweed
Range: Palos Verdes Peninsula (Los Angeles County), California
History: The Palos Verdes Blue butterfly was listed as endangered in 1980 and was feared extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994. This butterfly's habitat is under constant threat of development. The population is also threatened by weed control, off-road vehicle use, non-native invasive plants, and fire suppression. Conservation initiatives include control of human use of the habitat, replanting of the host species, and a captive breeding program. (Xerxes society)
Host Plant(s): Milkvetch and deerweed
Range: Palos Verdes Peninsula (Los Angeles County), California
History: The Palos Verdes Blue butterfly was listed as endangered in 1980 and was feared extinct until it was rediscovered in 1994. This butterfly's habitat is under constant threat of development. The population is also threatened by weed control, off-road vehicle use, non-native invasive plants, and fire suppression. Conservation initiatives include control of human use of the habitat, replanting of the host species, and a captive breeding program. (Xerxes society)
Florida leafwing butterfly (Anaea troglodyta floridalis)
Federal Status: Endangered
Range: Florida
Host plant: Pineland Croton
Description and History: The Florida leafwing is a medium-sized butterfly approximately 2.75 to 3 inches (in) (76 to 78 millimeters (mm)) in length. The upper-wing (or open wing) surface color is red to red-brown, the underside (closed wings) is gray to tan, with a tapered outline, cryptically looking like a dead leaf when the butterfly is at rest. The Florida leafwing exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly larger and with darker coloring along the wing margins than the males. The Florida leafwing occurs only within pine rocklands that retain its hostplant, pineland croton.
Range: Florida
Host plant: Pineland Croton
Description and History: The Florida leafwing is a medium-sized butterfly approximately 2.75 to 3 inches (in) (76 to 78 millimeters (mm)) in length. The upper-wing (or open wing) surface color is red to red-brown, the underside (closed wings) is gray to tan, with a tapered outline, cryptically looking like a dead leaf when the butterfly is at rest. The Florida leafwing exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly larger and with darker coloring along the wing margins than the males. The Florida leafwing occurs only within pine rocklands that retain its hostplant, pineland croton.
Uncompahgre fritillary butterfly (Boloria acrocnema)
Federal Status: Endangered
Host plant: Snow willows (Salix nivalis)
Historical range: Colorado.
Description and History: The Uncompahgre fritillary is a small butterfly with a 2-3 cm (1 inch) wingspan. Males have rusty brown wings criss-crossed with black bars; females’ wings are somewhat lighter. Underneath, the forewing is light ocher and the hindwing has a bold, white jagged bar dividing the crimson brown inner half from the purple-grey scaling on the outer wing surface. The body has a rusty brown thorax and a brownish black abdomen. The Uncompahgre fritillary butterfly was discovered on Uncompahgre Peak, Hinsdale County, Colorado on July 30, 1978. It was subsequently described as a new species. (ECOS- USFWS)
Host plant: Snow willows (Salix nivalis)
Historical range: Colorado.
Description and History: The Uncompahgre fritillary is a small butterfly with a 2-3 cm (1 inch) wingspan. Males have rusty brown wings criss-crossed with black bars; females’ wings are somewhat lighter. Underneath, the forewing is light ocher and the hindwing has a bold, white jagged bar dividing the crimson brown inner half from the purple-grey scaling on the outer wing surface. The body has a rusty brown thorax and a brownish black abdomen. The Uncompahgre fritillary butterfly was discovered on Uncompahgre Peak, Hinsdale County, Colorado on July 30, 1978. It was subsequently described as a new species. (ECOS- USFWS)
References
Xerxes Red List of Butterflies and Moths: https://xerces.org/red-list-of-butterflies-and-moths/
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp0/reports/ad-hoc-species-report?kingdom=V&kingdom=I&status=E&status=T&status=EmE&status=EmT&status=EXPE&status=EXPN&status=SAE&status=SAT&fcrithab=on&fstatus=on&fspecrule=on&finvpop=on&fgroup=on&header=Listed+Animals
Butterflies and Moths of North America.
https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/search/google/
Endangered Butterflies and Plants - USFS Podcast with Dave Harrelson
https://www.fws.gov/pollinators/audio/EndangeredPollinators_Dave.mp3
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. ECOS Environmental Conservation Online System
https://ecos.fws.gov/ecp0/reports/ad-hoc-species-report?kingdom=V&kingdom=I&status=E&status=T&status=EmE&status=EmT&status=EXPE&status=EXPN&status=SAE&status=SAT&fcrithab=on&fstatus=on&fspecrule=on&finvpop=on&fgroup=on&header=Listed+Animals
Butterflies and Moths of North America.
https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/search/google/
Endangered Butterflies and Plants - USFS Podcast with Dave Harrelson
https://www.fws.gov/pollinators/audio/EndangeredPollinators_Dave.mp3
Author
Rebecca Chandler
Garden Educator, Naturalist and Ethnobotanist
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