Why Tons of Monarch Butterflies Are Flocking to Illinois this Year

Apparently, the Eastern Monarch Butterfly population has doubled in size this year.

Based on previous studies, Monarch Butterflies start arriving in Illinois around April.  They'll migrate here through, roughly, June.

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So, if you start seeing more butterflies fluttering around town than you usually do, don't worry.  This is a good thing!  With less severe drought and way better weather conditions, these might be factors that play into the uprise in Monarch Butterflies in 2025.

Why Tons of Monarch Butterflies Are Flocking to Illinois this Year

"“We recognize the key role of local communities, as well as the support of the government of Mexico in conserving the forest and providing this iconic species with the opportunity to thrive,” said Jorge Rickards, director general of WWF Mexico." [worldwildlife]

If you didn't know, Monarch Butterflies are pollinators.  They help in North America's ecosystems, plus having these beauties around only benefit us humans!

"With 80% of agricultural food production depending on pollinators like monarchs, protecting them helps us all."'

 

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Every year, they go on a journey that most humans haven't even attempted.  They travel from Southern Canada and the US to Mexico and fly up to 3,000 miles.  Then, lay eggs on milkweed plants in the USM which leads them to the final stages of their 8-month life journey.  Anywhere between three to five generations are born, and they only live three to five weeks, find breeding sites, and complete their migration cycle at for the year.

When summer comes around, take a look around outside.  If you notice a ton of butterflies around your house, this is why.  And it's a great problem to have!