Monarch butterflies — Texas’ state insect — are in the middle of migrating south for the winter, and should reach peak presence in the Lone Star State within a matter of weeks.
The butterflies’ relationship with Texas is significant, and not just because they’re burnt orange. The insects are suffering from declining populations, and rely on native plants for habitat and food. Pro tip: Learn more about how you can help support Monarch populations in your own backyard here .
Last year, the first Monarchs were spotted in Central Texas in the first week of October , according to data from Journey North, a Monarch-watching website. Most recent sightings of the insects this year have been as far south as San Marcos.
Are you keeping an eye out for Monarch butterflies? Let us know when you spot one — and if you happen to snap a photo, we’d love to share it in an upcoming newsletter.
Follow Monarch migration on Journey North, which collects + maps reported sightings of the butterflies.
Map by Journey North