Milkweed butterfly

/mˈɪlkwiːd bˈʌtəflˌaɪ/

/mˈɪlkwiːd bˈʌɾɚflˌaɪ/

[noun]

Milkweed butterfly

[NOUN]

a captivating insect known for its distinct orange and black wing pattern and annual migration

synonyms : Danaus plexippus

monarch

monarch butterfly

milkweed butterfly definition and meaning

What is a "milkweed butterfly"?

A milkweed butterfly, commonly known as the monarch butterfly is a captivating insect belonging to the family Nymphalidae. It is renowned for its distinct orange and black wing pattern and its remarkable annual migration. Milkweed butterflies primarily rely on milkweed plants as their host plants for breeding and food. The monarch butterfly is known for its incredible long-distance journey, spanning thousands of miles, as it migrates between North America and Mexico. This iconic butterfly species plays a critical role in pollination and serves as a symbol of conservation and environmental awareness. Its striking beauty and remarkable life cycle make the milkweed butterfly a beloved and cherished creature in the natural world.

Examples

1. They saw that the butterflies in the photos all belonged to the family that includes monarchs, known as the milkweed butterflies.

2. Right now, all we do know is that milkweed butterflies are not necessarily the whimsical, innocent creatures that they seem to be.

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