Watch 'Monarch's First Flight' on Facebook Live!

Watch a monarch's first flight and learn more about the life stages of this incredible insect during a Facebook Live program scheduled for noon Wednesday, July 8.

The virtual "Monarch's First Flight" program can be viewed on the Forest Preserve District of Will County's Facebook page. The program will be pinned to the top of the page.

Please note, this is an online only program. So no need to hop in your car, just tune in on your computer or smart device and enjoy a nice lunchtime nature diversion.

During the program, interpretive naturalist Angie Opiola will reveal how naturalists find eggs in odd places. And a Forest Preserve camera will zoom in close to see a tiny egg, a little caterpillar the size of an eye lash, a hungry caterpillar, a chrysalis and an adult butterfly.

Opiola said the program will include a "wondrous" first flight as a monarch is released into the wild.

"Butterflies invoke such natural beauty that people can’t help but be moved," said Opiola of the insects popularity in general.

But because of their decline in recent years and educational campaigns designed to restore the milkweed plants and habitats that sustain monarchs, this butterfly in particular is drawing more attention, Opiola explained.

"Monarchs specifically have proven to be an important poster child for all insects and pollinators," she said. "So many people have preconceived notions about how pesky, creepy and disease ridden bugs can be, that they lose sight about just how important they are to our very existence! Not to mention their interesting life cycle, nearly impossible migration route and feeding habits!"

Opiola will answer questions during the program, so feel free to post your inquiries on the comment section of the Facebook livestream. She will also be prepared to give you some pointers on how to “butterfly-up” your lawn and the pros and cons of rearing monarchs at home.