Monarchs MARCHing

As winter is starting to end and the first signs of spring appear, something incredible is happening across North America: the monarch butterflies are beginning their long journey north. Every March, millions of monarchs that have overwintered in the mountains of central Mexico start to take flight, following an ancient migratory path that spans thousands of miles. 

Why March Matters for Monarchs

March is a critical time for monarchs. The butterflies that overwintered in Mexico (the ones alive in March) are actually the same butterflies that migrated south the previous fall. As they head north, they begin looking for milkweed — the only plant where monarchs lay their eggs and then where their caterpillars can feed. Without enough milkweed along their migration path, monarch populations struggle to survive and thrive.

That’s why early spring is the perfect time for all of us to pitch in. Planting native milkweed now gives migrating monarchs a vital place to rest, reproduce, and continue their incredible journey.

Small Actions, Big Impact

If you're wondering how you can help monarchs this season, here are a few easy ways to make a difference:

🌱 Plant native milkweed: Early spring is the perfect time to sow milkweed seeds outdoors.

🌼 Grow nectar-rich flowers: Monarchs and other pollinators need plenty of food sources along their way.

🏡 Create a habitat: Even a small patch of your backyard, balcony, or community garden can become a safe haven for monarchs.

📚 Educate others: Share the story of the monarch migration with friends, schools, and libraries — the more people who know, the more we can protect these incredible travelers.

Looking Ahead

At Camila’s Butterfly Project, we’re excited to be launching new milkweed planting initiatives this spring and supporting libraries, schools, and local gardens across the region. 

Seeing communities come together to support monarchs reminds us that small acts — like planting a single seed — can lead to powerful change.