One of the things we can always count on is nature. Whether she’s consistent or surprising, we can always be sure that there will be some form of beauty we can take in. And in Maine, Mother Nature has a little something special up her sleeve each spring and fall. The annual Monarch migration takes place twice a year and, to some people’s surprise, we can catch them all the way up here in Maine!
Despite the fact that the Monarch butterfly has wings that look oh-so delicate, it’s actually one very hearty animal! So hearty, in fact, that it manages to make a 3,000-mile voyage twice each year!
ksblack99 / Flickr
Each spring Monarchs fly, in droves, from Southern places like Mexico and Florida where they spend the winter.
U.S. Forest Service
The first generation of butterflies that make the trip might not make it all the way. But they’ll lay eggs on their route, which will hatch and continue the journey themselves.
Brenda Reamy / Flickr
This cycle repeats and the second or third generation of Monarchs are the ones that complete the journey. These are the Monarchs we’re likely to see in Maine. And from here they’ll continue on their way to Canada.
martinlabar / Flickr
For many, the Monarch migration is a telling sign of spring and summer. In Maine, as they make their way here, it brings fun memories of being kids playing outside.
usfwsmidwest / Flickr
While nobody really knows why the Monarchs make this huge journey, scientists believe they’re triggered by sensing longer days and rising temperatures.
amyashcraft / Flickr
In the fall, Monarchs make their journey back down South following similar paths. However, one difference that you might notice is the way they congregate.
stevecorey / Flickr
In the spring many fly solo, but in the fall the colder temperatures cause them to gather in roosts to stay warmer.
usfwsmidwest / Flickr
The route changes slightly each year, but this is what was reported across the country in 2019. Looks like there were plenty of sightings all the way into Vacationland!
maps.journeynorth.org
The best part about this migration? You don’t need anything fancy to see it! Grab yourself a chair and enjoy watching them right outside!
drphotomoto / Flickr
For more information on the annual spring Monarch migration, check out the U.S Forest Service website. You can also track them in real-time using this interactive map! You can even track the migration path from past years.
ksblack99 / Flickr
U.S. Forest Service
Brenda Reamy / Flickr
martinlabar / Flickr
usfwsmidwest / Flickr
amyashcraft / Flickr
stevecorey / Flickr
maps.journeynorth.org
drphotomoto / Flickr
Speaking of wildlife making their way into Maine…Keep your eyes peeled, thousands of hummingbirds are headed for Maine during their migration this spring.
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