Monarch Butterfly Phenophase Definitions

Monarch Butterfly
C. Armstrong, UMaine

Directions: As you report on phenophase status (Y, N or ?) on the datasheets, refer to the definitions on this sheet to find out what you should look for, for each phenophase in each species. To report the intensity of the phenophase, choose the best answer to the question below the phenophase, if one is included.

Activity

Monarch butterfly on a purple cone flower
Monarch butterfly on a purple cone flower. Steven Katovich, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org.

Active individuals

One or more individuals are seen moving about or at rest.

Flower visitation

One or more individuals are seen visiting flowers or flying from flower to flower. If possible, record the name of the plant or describe it in the comments field.

Migrating adults

Multiple adults of the same species are seen flying steadily in a uniform direction

without stopping.

Monarch pair mating
Monarch pair mating. J. Lovett, www.MonarchWatch.org.

Mating

A male and female are seen coupled in a mating position, usually end to end. This can occur at rest or inflight.

Development

Active caterpillars

One or more caterpillars (larvae) are seen moving about or at rest. When seen on a plant, if possible, record the name of the plant or describe it in the comments field.

Caterpillars feeding

One or more caterpillars are seen feeding. If possible, record the name of the species or substance being eaten or describe it in the comments field.

Monarch caterpillar feeding
Monarch caterpillar feeding. J. Lovett, www.MonarchWatch.org.

Dead caterpillars

One or more dead caterpillars are seen, including those found on roads. Dead adults One or more dead adults are seen, including those found on roads.

Method

Individuals at a feeding station

One or more individuals are seen visiting a feeder, feeding station, or food placed by a person.

Individuals in a net

One or more individuals are seen caught in a net.