The monarchs are lagging behind their milkweed this spring. Plants are emerging 500 miles north of the migration's leading edge, at latitude 45°N in Minnesota. Typically the two are more synchronous, with the migration trailing within 200 miles of the milkweed. Watch the map to compare the timing of migration and the availability of this vital resource.

Finding Milkweed
Monarchs travel hundreds of miles across the landscape to find the milkweed they need for egg-laying. It may be harder for monarchs to find milkweed as their habitat shrinks and the gaps between patches become larger.

Scientists are exploring how habitat fragmentation could affect reproductive success. If a female has to fly too far, she will require more time to lay her eggs and more nectar to fuel her flight, thereby reducing her fecundity.

Restoring Milkweed Habitat
"Every monarch's story begins on milkweed; its shortage is why we have a population decline," says Dr. Karen Oberhauser.

High quality habitat is critical for monarchs now. The old generation is dying, and a new generation must grow and survive.

Explore the Habitat Restoration Map to see how people are helping with monarch recovery — then add your habitat project to the map.