Eastern Monarch Fall 2022 Report #4
Published: 10/25/2022
Peak Activity Along Gulf Coast
Peak activity in the Eastern Flyway is largely concentrated along the Gulf Coast. Migrating monarchs are being widely reported, and Journey North volunteers are taking delight in witnessing snippets of fall migration.
Kathi in Matagorda, TX: “First sign of migrating Monarchs passing through Matagorda Beach this year. This is their favorite roosting spot in the Canary Island palms at sunset, year after year! Welcome back!” (10/18/2022)
Lacie in Gulf Shores, AL: “These are just a sample of what I am seeing. I listed 50, but I know I’ve seen far more given the diverse areas I am hiking.” (10/19/2022)
Penny in Panacea, FL: “Amazing! I was enjoying the sunset at Alligator Point Bird Preserve and noticed them [~100 monarchs] surrounding the pine tree and Seaside Goldenrod flowers.” (10/22/2022)
Moving Through Texas and Into Mexico, Some Reports Yet in the Midwest
Along the Central Flyway, Texas remains a hotspot of activity, and other butterflies such as queen and painted lady are being observed nectaring alongside monarchs. Check out this visual to help distinguish monarchs from look-alike species. Farther south, more monarchs are making their way into Mexico. And farther north, late travelers are moving through the Midwest.
Melba in Plainview, TX: “10 or more Monarchs are nectaring on my Cowpen Daisies and Blue Mist blooms. Many times that number of Queens, and many Painted Ladies. A strong front is blowing in tonight and tomorrow, so they may fly south soon.” (10/22/2022)
Mario Antonio in Piedra Blanca, Coahuila, MX: “Clear skies, 58 butterflies flying in 5 minutes, light winds, 20° C.” (10/24/2022)
Rick in Loveland, OH: “Saw 5 Monarchs feeding on Mexican Sunflower & Butterfly Bush today, migrating through Ohio.” (10/24/2022)
Long Journey Ahead
Monarchs are still passing though Southern Ontario. When will migratory activity end in these more northerly locations? Check out our monarch migration maps to explore trends from previous years.
Darlene in Point Pelee National Park, ON: “About 15 monarch on this beautiful fall day seen on the warm sunny east side of the [Point Pelee] Tip.” (10/22/2022)
