Monarch Butterfly
Image: Pacific Southwest Region USFWS from Sacramento, US (Public domain)
Common NameMonarch Butterfly
Scientific NameDanaus plexippus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)90
Primary Colorsblue, purple, pink, black, yellow
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open fields, forest edges
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, South America, Australia, New Zealand, parts of Europe and Africa
Host Plantsmilkweed
Flight PeriodMay to October in temperate regions, year-round in tropical regions
Conservation Statusendangered
Lifecycle NotesMonarchs undergo complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult. Larvae feed exclusively on milkweed plants.
Identification TipsThis image depicts a paper craft, not a live butterfly. Real Monarch butterflies (*Danaus plexippus*) are characterized by their iconic orange and black wing pattern with white spots on black borders, and their large size. They are famous for their long-distance migrations.
Description
This image features a colorful paper craft butterfly, predominantly blue and purple, with black spots on the forewings, pink floral patterns on the hindwings, and a skull motif on its head. The name 'MAURY' is written on one wing. It is hanging from a tree branch and represents a Monarch butterfly.
