Species Profile: Monarch Butterfly

Common Name: Monarch Butterfly
Scientific Name: Danaus plexippus

Location: Widely distributed across Central Texas, favoring open habitats such as prairies, parks, gardens, and roadsides. Central Texas is a critical stopover along the monarch’s migratory route.

Mating Habits: Mating occurs throughout the breeding season. Males patrol for females and court them mid-flight. Females lay eggs singly on milkweed plants, which are essential for caterpillar development.

Seasonal Habits / Migratory Patterns: Monarchs are famous for their long-distance migration. Central Texas is a key region in both the spring northward and fall southward migrations. Monarchs pass through in large numbers during these migration waves, especially in October and March-April.

Ecological Relevance: Monarch caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed, making this plant crucial for their survival. Adults are important pollinators and serve as a food source for birds and other animals despite their mildly toxic chemistry.

Interesting Facts:

• One of the few butterfly species known for a two-way migration, similar to birds.

• Their bright orange and black coloration is a warning to predators about their toxicity.

• Monarch populations have declined significantly due to habitat loss and reduced milkweed availability.

Native Plant Associations: Essential milkweed species include Asclepias tuberosa (Butterfly Milkweed) and Asclepias viridis (Green Milkweed). Nectar plants include goldenrod, frostweed, and Gregg’s mistflower.

Conservation Note: Planting native milkweed and nectar-rich flowers and reducing pesticide use are critical to supporting monarchs in Central Texas.