OKLAHOMA CITY — Monarch butterflies are making their way through Oklahoma as part of their awe-inspiring fall migration — a 2,000–3,000-mile journey from the northern U.S. and Canada to the mountain forests of central Mexico.
A recent roost of 40 monarchs was reported in Fargo on September 24, signaling that these iconic pollinators are now entering the state. The Oklahoma Monarch Society encourages Oklahomans to take action: report sightings and plant native wildflowers to support monarchs as they pass through.
“This is a magical time of year when Oklahomans can see kaleidoscopes of monarchs flying throughout the state,” said Katie Hawk, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Monarch Society. “Monarchs rely on Oklahoma for food and shelter as they make their magnificent flight to Mexico for the winter. Every Oklahoman can help fuel their wings and increase their populations by planting native wildflowers and milkweed and reporting their monarch sightings.”
How can Oklahomans help Monarchs?
In the last decade, monarch butterfly populations have plummeted at an alarming rate due to habitat loss from development and herbicides, use of pesticides, and climate change.
Be part of the journey, report sightings As monarchs pass through our state, your observations help scientists monitor migration patterns, population health, and habitat use. This includes sightings of adult monarchs in flight or feeding, caterpillars or eggs on milkweed, and roosts of butterflies resting at dawn or dusk. Submitting photos with your report enhances data quality and assists with verification.
By reporting sightings to Journey North, you’re contributing to a powerful community science effort at journeynorth. org
Plant the path for pollinators with Native Milkweed and Wildflowers
Native milkweed and wildflowers are essential for monarchs. Milkweed is the only plant where monarch butterflies lay their eggs, and it’s the sole food source for monarch caterpillars. Native wildflowers provide energy in the form of nectar which is essential in aiding the butterflies on this epic journey south. Residents are encouraged to plant native species in gardens, on roadsides, or even in pots. Resources on what to plant, where to buy and upcoming plant sales statewide can be found at okiesformonarchs. org. Hawk said, “This magical time of year brings a stunning kaleidoscope of monarchs through Oklahoma. We’re lucky to still have them, but their future depends on us. Plant native milkweed and wildflowers, and report your sightings to help protect these incredible butterflies.”
Oklahoma: A critical link in the Monarch’s migration Oklahoma plays a critical role in the monarch’s annual life cycle, serving as both a seasonal breeding ground and a key migration corridor in spring and fall. Milkweed in spring, summer, and fall supports egg-laying and caterpillar development across multiple generations. In fall, nectar-rich native flowers provide the fuel monarchs need to complete their long journey south to Mexico. Protecting and restoring habitat through statewide planting efforts and community science is essential to sustaining this iconic species.
To learn more and get involved, visit okiesformonarchs. org.
