Photos: Monarch Butterflies in Shaw Park, Clayton, MO

It’s again that time of the year, when Monarch butterflies are visiting our gardens. The presence of the spectacular Monarch is a pleasant surprise for many visitors of the Sensory Garden year after year. Monarch butterflies are one of the most fascinating insects. Their long migration suggests, that they are more resilient than we assume. A noticeable decline is observed in their numbers though, due to loss of habitat. Fewer milkweed plants, which are essential for the Monarch to survive is one of the reason. Ornamental milkweed flowering in the Sensory Garden is the Monarch’s favorite source of nectar to feed them on their long journey.

We can learn more at monarchwatch.org about the efforts to study the Monarch and how to create a butterfly garden. We can also watch this impressive Google Earth Video about the Monarch’s complex migration and life cycle.