Monarch butterfly

The monarch is a striking orange-and-black butterfly known for its long migrations across North America. It feeds on milkweed plants, which make it taste bitter to predators. Its bold wing patterns warn birds and other animals that it’s not a tasty snack.

• Wings span 8.9–10.2 cm (3.5–4.0 in), with bold black veins and white spots.
• The similar-looking viceroy butterfly mimics its colors but has extra black stripes.
• Despite visiting milkweed flowers, it doesn’t pollinate them very effectively.