In a world of uncertainties, one thing we can always count on in the Palmetto State is the annual Monarch butterfly migration that takes place each spring (and again in the fall). The Monarch may appear dainty and fragile but it is the only known butterfly to migrate twice per year – and as far as 3,000 miles each time. Get ready, South Carolina, because the migration has already begun and millions of Monarchs are on their way!
For most, it’s a nature show you won’t even need to leave your own back yard to experience.
Wikipedia/Rbreidbrown
Watch in awe as these winged creatures invade the landscape while making their way northward for the summer.
U.S. Forest Service The Monarchs on the flyway through South Carolina will originate from overwintering sites in Mexico and in Florida. But many of those from the first generation won’t make it as far as South Carolina.
They’ll lay eggs along the way and the life cycle will begin anew for another generation to continue the migration.
Flickr/Brenda Reamy
The pattern will continue until a second or third generation reaches its final destination in parts of North America as far reaching as Canada.
Flickr/Martin LaBar And South Carolina will be included in witnessing all parts of the Monarch life cycle!
The Monarch is quite possibly the most well-recognized of all butterflies. Its annual spring migration northward is something positive to look forward to this season.
Wikipedia/Kenneth Dwain Harrelson
No one knows for sure why Monarchs literally go to such great lengths to migrate but it’s believed the whole process during the spring is triggered by longer days and warmer temperatures.
Flickr/Ali Eminov
Unlike during the fall migration, where cooler temps spur the Monarchs to gather in roosts to keep warm when the sun isn’t shining, during the spring migration, most will travel solo.
Flickr/Steve Corey
So pull out the lawn furniture and get ready for one of the best live nature shows of the year – right in your own yard!
Wikipedia/Rbreidbrown
U.S. Forest Service
The Monarchs on the flyway through South Carolina will originate from overwintering sites in Mexico and in Florida. But many of those from the first generation won’t make it as far as South Carolina.
Flickr/Brenda Reamy
Flickr/Martin LaBar
And South Carolina will be included in witnessing all parts of the Monarch life cycle!
Wikipedia/Kenneth Dwain Harrelson
Flickr/Ali Eminov
Flickr/Steve Corey
Have you seen any Monarchs in South Carolina this spring? We’d love to hear all about it so join the discussion! And for another spectacular live nature show taking place this spring, read all about the annual hummingbird migration in South Carolina!
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