The Monarch butterfly is also known by its scientific name, Danaus plexippus, which means "sleepy transformation" in Greek. This is a fitting name because this species of butterfly can hibernate and metamorphose. Each year, millions of butterflies migrate from the United States and Canada to Mexico, where they hibernate for the winter.
Monarch butterflies are known for their trademark orange wings, black veining and white spots. The male butterflies have thinner veins than females and also have two black spots on their wings. Their wingspan is about four inches, and they weigh less than a paperclip.
It was amazing to see the butterflies. Many were "sleeping" on branches and sunning their wings to get warm for flight. However, it was sad to see so many dead butterflies that didn't live because of climate conditions.
Monarch butterflies live mostly in forests or mountains. From mid-November to mid-March, they hibernate in the forests of central Mexico. In March, they begin their eight-month journey back to Eastern Canada, laying eggs along the way. There are several protected butterfly sanctuaries in Mexico.
