What is a "monarch butterfly"?

A monarch butterfly is a magnificent insect belonging to the family Nymphalidae, easily recognized by its vibrant orange wings adorned with black veins and white spots. Renowned for its incredible long-distance migration, monarch butterflies travel thousands of miles between their breeding grounds and overwintering sites. They rely on milkweed plants as their sole host for laying eggs and as a food source for their caterpillars. Monarchs are not only symbols of beauty but also of conservation, facing challenges due to habitat loss and climate change. Their annual migration and delicate yet resilient nature make them beloved and iconic creatures in the natural world.