Monarch Butterfly Insect Species Facts & Information

Discover the extraordinary world of the Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus)—one of North America’s most remarkable insects. In this video, we explore their long-distance migration, unique chemical defenses, stunning metamorphosis, and the little-known biological secrets that make Monarchs unlike any other butterfly on Earth. From their multi-generational travel routes to their ability to store plant toxins, Monarchs are a perfect example of evolutionary precision, endurance, and natural beauty.
Whether you're a butterfly enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply curious about how these delicate creatures accomplish such impossible feats, this video offers a complete, science-based breakdown of everything that makes Monarchs truly legendary.

Scientific Name: Danaus plexippus
Common Name: Monarch Butterfly
Classification:

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Nymphalidae

Adult Wingspan: 3.5–4 in
Adult Weight: ~0.02 oz

Egg Size: ~0.04 in tall
Caterpillar Length: Up to 1.8 in

Lifespan:

Regular generations: 2–6 weeks

Migratory generation: Up to 8 months

Migration Distance: Up to 3,000 miles
Daily Flight Range: 50–100 miles
Flight Temperature Requirements:

Minimum flight temperature: ~50°F

Optimal muscle temp: ~86°F

Overwintering Elevation (Mexico): 8,000–11,000 ft

Diet:

Larvae: Milkweed only

Adults: Nectar from various flowers; also perform “puddling” for minerals

Defense Mechanism:

Stores cardiac glycosides from milkweed

Toxic to predators

Reproduction:

300–500 eggs per female

Eggs laid individually on milkweed leaves

Notable Behaviors:

Time-compensated sun compass

Use of polarized light

Possible magnetic field navigation

Nectar-loading before migration

Dense overwintering clustering

Special Traits:

UV vision

Structural coloration in chrysalis

Built-in antifreeze compounds

Landmark memory and learned behavior
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