The monarch butterfly’s life cycle is truly a marvel. In just over a month, these magnificent insects undergo more changes than some humans experience in a lifetime!

 

Temperature-Dependent

The development rate of monarch butterflies is influenced by temperature. They develop more quickly in warm temperatures and more slowly in cooler conditions.

 

Complete Metamorphosis

Monarchs, like other butterflies and moths, undergo complete metamorphosis. They have four distinct life stages:

 

• Egg: Female monarchs lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed plants (genus Asclepias).
• Larva (Caterpillar): Monarch caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed.
• Pupa (Chrysalis): The transformation stage where the caterpillar becomes an adult.
• Adult: Adult monarchs survive by nectaring on a variety of flowering plants.

 

Each stage plays a crucial role in the monarch’s life cycle, making it a fascinating process to observe and study.