Monarch Butterfly Images: Find & Download Free Pictures!
Have you ever paused to marvel at the delicate dance of nature, a vibrant tapestry woven with creatures great and small? The monarch butterfly, with its fiery wings and epic migrations, stands as a testament to the power and fragility of the natural world.
These iconic insects, scientifically known as Danaus plexippus, are more than just pretty faces. They are ecological marvels, playing a crucial role in pollination and serving as a vital link in the food chain. From their humble beginnings as tiny caterpillars munching on milkweed to their breathtaking transformation into winged wonders, monarchs captivate our imaginations and inspire a sense of awe. Their incredible journey, spanning thousands of miles, is a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring power of instinct. The monarch butterfly has captured the attention of researchers, contributing significantly to scientific knowledge, much like the invaluable fruit fly.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Monarch, Milkweed Butterfly, Common Tiger, The Wanderer |
| Scientific Name | Danaus plexippus |
| Family | Nymphalidae (Brush-footed butterflies) |
| Wingspan | 8.9 10.2 cm (3.5 4 inches) |
| Coloration | Bright orange with black veins and borders; white spots on the borders |
| Caterpillar Food Source | Milkweed (Asclepias species) |
| Adult Food Source | Nectar from various flowers |
| Habitat | Fields, meadows, gardens, roadsides anywhere milkweed is found. Overwintering in oyamel fir forests (Mexico) and coastal California. |
| Migration | One of the most spectacular migrations in the insect world; travels up to 2,500 miles. |
| Lifespan | 2-6 weeks (summer generations); up to 9 months (overwintering generation) |
| Conservation Status | Threatened (due to habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use) |
| Interesting Fact | Monarch caterpillars sequester toxins from milkweed, making them poisonous to predators. |
| Further Information | World Wildlife Fund - Monarch Butterfly |
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