Since the beginning of Summer 2023, we have been raising Monarch butterflies from eggs we’ve found on the milkweed plants in our garden. This experience has been nothing short of magical, offering a close-up view of one of nature’s most extraordinary transformations: metamorphosis. Each step of the Monarch’s journey—from a fragile egg to a soaring butterfly—is a miracle that continues to captivate us.

The Metamorphosis Process

The life cycle of a Monarch butterfly is a stunning testament to nature’s complexity and beauty. Here’s a glimpse into their transformation:

Egg Stage: Monarch eggs are tiny, oval-shaped, and creamy white. A female Monarch lays these delicate eggs exclusively on milkweed plants, which serve as the only host plant for their larvae.
Caterpillar Stage: After 3-5 days, the eggs hatch into caterpillars (larvae). These tiny creatures feed voraciously on milkweed leaves, growing exponentially and molting multiple times as they develop into large, colorful caterpillars.
Chrysalis Stage: Once fully grown, the caterpillar attaches itself to a sturdy surface and forms a chrysalis. This jade-green casing, adorned with gold specks, is where the true magic happens. Over 10-14 days, the caterpillar undergoes a complete transformation.
Butterfly Stage: When the chrysalis becomes transparent, the Monarch is ready to emerge. Watching an adult butterfly unfold its wings for the first time is a moment of pure wonder. After resting and drying its wings, the butterfly takes flight, ready to begin its journey.

This summer, we’ve had the privilege of releasing approximately 45 butterflies into our garden, with hopes of releasing 15 more before the season ends. Each butterfly represents resilience, beauty, and hope.

Why Raise Monarchs?

In the wild, Monarchs face overwhelming odds. Only about 3% of Monarchs make it from egg to butterfly due to predators, environmental challenges, and habitat destruction. However, when raised in a controlled environment, their survival rate can soar to 90%. By intervening, we’re giving these pollinators a much-needed chance to thrive.

The Importance of Milkweed

Milkweed is essential for Monarch survival, serving as both a host plant for eggs and a food source for caterpillars. Unfortunately, milkweed populations are declining due to:

Climate Change: Irregular temperatures and rainfall affect milkweed growth.
Habitat Loss: Urbanization, agriculture, and deforestation reduce available milkweed habitat.
Pesticides and GMOs: These practices harm milkweed and other native plants.

Planting native milkweed varieties, such as Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca) or Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias incarnata), is one of the most impactful ways to support Monarchs. Native milkweed is better adapted to local ecosystems and provides the nutrients Monarchs need to grow and reproduce.

Monarch Conservation: What You Can Do

Protecting Monarch butterflies is a collective effort. Here’s how you can help:

Plant Native Milkweed: Create a haven for Monarchs in your garden by planting native milkweed species. Cluster the plants together to make them more accessible to butterflies.
Avoid Pesticides: Pesticides harm Monarchs and other pollinators. Opt for natural pest control methods instead.
Provide Nectar Sources: Adult Monarchs feed on nectar from a variety of flowers. Include pollinator-friendly plants in your garden to support their journey.
Spread Awareness: Share information about the plight of Monarchs and the importance of milkweed with your community.
Raise Monarchs: If you have access to milkweed, consider raising Monarchs from eggs to butterflies. This hands-on approach can make a significant difference in their survival rate.

Climate Change and Monarchs

Monarch butterflies are a symbol of nature’s resilience, but they are also incredibly vulnerable to environmental changes. Climate change disrupts their migration patterns, breeding cycles, and the availability of milkweed and nectar plants. By creating habitats and reducing our ecological footprint, we can help Monarchs adapt and thrive.

Watch Our Monarch Journey

We’ve documented our Monarch Project throughout Summer 2023. Watch our Story Album on Instagram to see these incredible creatures grow and transform: Instagram Story Album

Check out these videos for a closer look:

Let’s Save the Pollinators Together

Every small action counts when it comes to conservation. By planting milkweed, refraining from pesticides, and raising awareness, we can make a meaningful impact. Together, we can protect Monarch butterflies and ensure their miraculous metamorphosis continues for generations to come.

Thank you for supporting pollinators and being part of this journey. Let’s keep planting, growing, and inspiring change—one butterfly at a time.