The Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is famed for its annual mass migrations from Mexico up to Canada and back again. It has a fascinating natural history - millions of these butterflies congregate in Mexico over the winter, completely covering portions of forest in a sea of orange. Host plants include almost any Milkweed (Asclepias) as well as some related plants that can be used as substitutes. Curiously, the caterpillars will readily feed on slices of butternut squash if you are short of Milkweed! They develop quickly, exhibiting characteristic black, white and yellow striping. Pupae are blue-green in colour and have some fine gold markings, becoming transparent they until you can clearly see the fully formed butterfly within.
