Monarch Butterfly
Image: Winslow Homer (Public domain)
Common NameMonarch Butterfly
Scientific NameDanaus plexippus
FamilyNymphalidae
SubfamilyDanainae
Wingspan (mm)95
Primary Colorsorange, black, white
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, open fields, gardens
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, parts of South America
Host Plantsmilkweed
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusendangered
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on milkweed plants, hatching into striped caterpillars that feed on the leaves. They then form a jade-green chrysalis before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsRecognizable by its distinctive orange and black pattern with black veins and white spots on the black wing margins. Often seen nectaring or during mass migrations.
Description
A large butterfly with bright orange wings, prominent black veins, and black margins adorned with white spots, as depicted on the woman's hand.
