Chapter 1: Monarch Conservation Insights

As a Monarch Conservationist with two decades of hands-on experience, I have gained valuable insights into the monitoring of these iconic butterflies. While many individuals have learned about monarchs through my efforts, some—typically those unfamiliar with me—are less inclined to hear my perspective.

Recently, during a walk in Northern Wisconsin, my husband and I spotted five monarch butterflies. Even if two of them were the same individuals seen at different times, this still represents a remarkable increase compared to last year, when I only observed a total of five throughout the entire season.

Monarch caterpillars rely on milkweed, which is evident from the chewed leaves. Although this year there are more signs of larvae feeding on the milkweed, a significant amount remains untouched. Nevertheless, I remain hopeful.

What many novice monarch enthusiasts fail to understand is that after experiencing several prosperous years, it is entirely normal to encounter periods with fewer or even no monarchs. Hence, just because you witness a plethora of eggs, larvae, chrysalises, and butterflies one year, it doesn’t guarantee the same the next. Ensuring the availability of suitable habitat is crucial.

The habitats I have created, filled with host plants for both monarch larvae and butterflies at my home and my sons’ school, have allowed me to witness these natural population fluctuations over more than twenty years.

I don’t mean to boast, but I have dedicated a significant amount of time to studying monarchs—long before it became fashionable to advocate for them. I have engaged with scientific literature, stayed updated with research, listened to experts, and educated my community about the life cycle and habitat needs of monarchs. I have established monarch habitats at three residences and two schools, and assisted friends in creating their own.

It brings me great joy when a friend encounters a monarch and messages me to share their experience. Even more gratifying is when someone I don’t know well reaches out for plant identification or guidance regarding milkweed or monarchs. This connection happens every year, and I cherish it!

While I consider myself a knowledgeable enthusiast with a foundation in environmental education and citizen science, I aspire to be a bona fide expert like Karen Oberhauser, formerly of the University of Minnesota and currently at the UW Arboretum in Madison, Wisconsin.

Yet, I strive to present the facts based on both my experiences and the knowledge I have accumulated over the years. My insights are derived from reputable sources, including universities and organizations like Monarch Joint Venture, Monarch Watch, and Journey North. It is essential to share information grounded in credible findings.

My journey has been science-oriented, beginning with pediatric nursing and transitioning into natural resources, though not entomology. Nevertheless, I strive to educate others about scientific discoveries and contribute to the conservation of this remarkable species.

Engaging with our natural world and species like the monarch fosters a love for the earth in our youth. I have played a pivotal role in nurturing this connection for over 600 students and numerous community members.

I take my responsibilities as an environmental educator and monarch conservationist seriously, primarily as a volunteer.

The summer season is just beginning for monarchs, and my optimism is growing. I recently ordered tags from Monarch Watch. After tagging for six years, I stopped last year due to a lack of butterflies following our move. Now, I am witnessing more monarchs fluttering about than I did a year ago. I am eager to participate in preserving their awe-inspiring migration and document their extraordinary life cycle time and time again.

Sharing accurate information is one way to contribute, but creating suitable habitats is equally critical for the sustainability of monarchs.

As many have learned, milkweed is a vital plant for the monarch's life cycle. I have primarily planted four varieties: common milkweed, rose milkweed, whorled milkweed, and butterfly weed. However, I have also encountered additional species in the wild, such as poke milkweed and clasping milkweed.

In our new yard, I currently have butterfly weed and common milkweed, but I plan to introduce whorled and rose milkweed soon. Milkweed serves as a host plant for monarchs, where adults lay their eggs and nectar on the flowers, while the larvae consume the leaves. Other beneficial plants for adult monarchs include Rudbeckia species, Zinnia, Asters, and Liatris.

Addressing Concerns About Other Insects

When people express concerns about encountering insects besides monarch caterpillars on their milkweed, I remind them that milkweed supports an entire ecosystem.

Milkweed attracts various insects, including milkweed beetles, aphids, and weevils, all of which are part of the natural order. Research indicates that eleven insect species inhabit the milkweed ecosystem (Agrawal, 2017).

However, many overlook this and take measures to eliminate these “undesirable” bugs. They often remove or wash them off to keep the milkweed pristine for monarchs. The reality is that these insects have adapted to thrive on this plant that harbors toxins. They all coexist on milkweed.

Having aphids on milkweed does not mean there will be less for the monarch, beetle, or moth that feeds on Asclepias. While ecologists understand this, many laypeople find it difficult to accept.

I have informed several individuals about the milkweed ecosystem and the insect community it supports. Unfortunately, my suggestions to allow nature to take its course often go unheeded. I recommend reading Agrawal’s book, "Monarchs and Milkweed" (2017), for further insights on this topic.

It is crucial to recognize that humans do not fully understand the reasons behind the evolution of the eleven insects that call milkweed home. Therefore, our attempts to “help” by removing certain insects may not be necessary.

Instead, our focus should be on planting more milkweed, native to our region, rather than on the various inhabitants of the “milkweed village.” Evolution has taken millions of years to shape this balance—let's not disrupt it.

When I see people removing aphids, beetles, or moths from their milkweed, I feel a sense of concern. I believe they have good intentions but need more information. My goal is to provide them with the resources they need.

Here are some reputable links regarding monarchs, along with suggestions on how to address concerns about them:

I resonate with this quote:

“Nature has a way of fixing things if we move out of its way a little.” — Happy Gardener, 2019.

When humans assume they can solve every problem in the natural world, it leads to complications. We must remember that every organism serves a purpose within its community, and allowing nature to function undisturbed may be the best approach.

To support monarchs, plant more native milkweed in your area. This strategy not only benefits the species but also aids in managing aphid populations by providing a larger habitat for them to thrive. After all, our development-driven actions have significantly reduced milkweed availability over the years.

Resources such as Journey North, Monarch Watch, and Monarch Joint Venture were invaluable in the creation of this article. Agrawal’s book is a must-read for anyone serious about understanding the relationship between monarchs and milkweed (2017), available on Amazon.

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Chapter 2: Monarchs in History

The first video titled THE JULY MONARCHY - FRANCE 1830 explores the historical significance of the July Monarchy and its impact on France.

The second video, July Revolution | 3 Minute History, provides a concise overview of the events surrounding the July Revolution and its relevance in history.