National Start Seeing Monarchs Day

National Start Seeing Monarchs Days is observed annually on the first Saturday in May to celebrate the Monarch butterfly. The Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is a well-known species of butterfly that is native to North America. It is named for its distinctive orange and black wings, which are marked with white spots and veins. Monarch butterflies are known for their long-distance migrations, during which they travel up to 3,000 miles from their breeding grounds in Canada and the United States to their wintering grounds in Mexico. This migration is one of the longest known insect migrations in the world. The Monarch butterfly is an important pollinator, playing a key role in the pollination of many plant species throughout its range. It is also a food source for many other animals, including birds, mammals, and insects. However, the Monarch butterfly population has declined significantly in recent years due to habitat loss and other factors. Many organizations and individuals are working to conserve and protect Monarch butterfly populations by creating habitat, reducing pesticide use, and supporting conservation efforts.