Did you know Monarch Butterflies are the state insect of Texas. It's no surprise because every Fall this beautiful creature graces much of Texas with a massive kaleidoscope as the butterflies migrate south for the winter. In fact, Texas is one of the key points in their migration where many rest to lay eggs.
​
Unfortunately, Monarch Butterfly populations have been steadily decreasing over the last 10 years due to a variety of factors. The Monarch Butterfly's journey to Mexico can be a treacherous one. Butterflies are often killed in groves by busy highways and pesticide run off; however, the main cause of their destruction is their loss of habitat.
Monarchs' Fall Migration
For instance, many nectar plants that adults eat are cleared for agricultural and urban developments. However, the more alarming decrease is the declining area habited by milkweed plants, and the name "weed" often gives the wrong idea about this flora: not only are a large variety native to North America, many species do not grow aggressively, so even in places where they are introduced they aren't invasive in the sense that most weeds force out native species.
​
Monarch Butterflies lay their eggs on milkweeds, and when the eggs hatch the caterpillars eat the milkweeds. In fact, milkweed plants are the only plants that young caterpillars eat. Plus some toxins in milkweeds actually protect the Monarch caterpillars and even adults from predators by giving them their notorious bitter taste. Without milkweeds along their migration, the Monarch Butterflies population will continue to decline.
