Monarch butterflies have a unique two-way migration pattern. Their route goes straight through Arizona, making the state a great place to watch the butterflies. There are multiple factors to consider when going to watch the butterflies, such as the best time and place to see them.
Milkweed is the only plant that monarch caterpillars use as a food source.
©iStock.com/herreid
When to Spot Monarch Butterflies in Arizona
Monarch butterflies migrate with the sole purpose of avoiding the winter cold. Monarch butterflies migrate because they do not ‘overwinter’—the process of living through the winter—in cold climates. Therefore, monarchs migrate from the north to southern California and Mexico. Monarchs are most frequently found in Arizona during their migration periods, primarily in the fall (September–November) and again in the spring (March–April). They spend the summer months in states further north. The warm climate of Arizona makes the state a perfect place for these butterflies to rest and reproduce. This prepares them for the next generation’s migration back up north.
The generation that makes its way south is known as the ‘super generation.’ These monarchs migrate south and live for around 8–9 months. These butterflies live longer than the average age of monarchs, which is typically 2-6 weeks. The longer lifespan is because they do not reproduce. By conserving energy through not reproducing and making frequent stops, they are able to complete the sometimes 3,000-mile journey south. Most butterflies seen in Arizona between October and April are migrating through the state on their way to overwintering sites in Mexico and California, although a small number may overwinter in the lower deserts of Arizona. This migration ensures that a new generation will soon be born.
Where to Spot Monarch Butterflies
Arizona has many great places to watch monarchs! One of the most well-known spots, and for good reason, is the Desert Botanical Garden. This location is great for many reasons: there are plenty of monarchs to see, and the garden is also actively working toward monarch conservation. With threats such as pesticides and climate change, monarch butterfly populations have declined significantly over the past decades. However, recent reports show the eastern monarch population nearly doubled in 2023, offering some hope to conservationists. The Desert Botanical Garden is a Monarch Waystation, a group that is dedicated to the creation of resources for the monarchs to access, allowing for a safe migration and reproduction.
The Desert Botanical Garden has made an effort to plant more milkweed for the butterflies. This initiative has benefited both the garden and the greater community. With the intention of planting over one million seeds, the group has accomplished many goals. They have created multiple community gardens, distributed milkweed plants to the community, and more. Other Monarch Waystations, in addition to the Desert Botanical Garden are just as amazing, allowing you to see these beautiful butterflies!
A Monarch butterfly has reduced forelegs.
©iStock.com/Christophe Merceron
What Plants Monarch Butterflies Like
Monarch butterflies prefer milkweed primarily because of its toxins. Milkweeds produce toxins called cardenolides and cardiac glycosides, both dangerous to most organisms. However, monarchs can safely ingest them, giving the butterflies their poisonous defense. By eating from these flowers, the monarchs can ward off predators.
There are around 29 species of milkweed native to Arizona. If you’re interested in growing milkweed to attract monarchs to your home, here are some popular species that are recommended by the Desert Botanical Garden. The white stem milkweed is a low-maintenance species that can handle the harsh Arizona heat with little water. This is a great plant to start with! Other species include the Arizona milkweed and the antelope horn milkweed. Both of these species can handle sunlight well, but require more watering attention. However, their bright white flowers make the extra effort worthwhile.
How to Watch Butterflies
Butterfly watching can be done in any way you like. It is a very simple activity anyone can enjoy. Bringing items like binoculars, a notebook, or a camera can enhance your butterfly-watching experience. Respecting both the butterflies and their habitats should always be a top priority. Whether it’s your first time butterfly watching in Arizona or not, hopefully, your experience is as amazing as the butterflies are!
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