Monarch butterflies with more white spots on their mostly orange-and-black wings are more successful at long-distance migration. Some scientists think the spots may affect airflow around their wings.

Following a bad year for butterflies in 2024, it’s more important than ever to take part in this year’s Big Butterfly Count.

Monarch butterflies have distinctive orange-and-black wings with small white spots. And it's those spots that recently caught the attention of a group of scientists.

It’s hard to overlook the brilliant orange and black wings of a monarch butterfly as it moves through a garden of flowers. It ...

Also, buckwheat produces small, pinkish-white flowers that feed local butterflies. “They have smaller flowers so butterflies with tiny proboscides can reach the nectar,” she said.

Arlo Pérez Esquivel A small black, white and orange butterfly stands on a leaf at the Butterfly Pavilion at Westminster “It’s the only place they go to for the winter,” Hershcovich said.

Monarch butterflies with more white spots on their mostly orange-and-black wings are more successful at long-distance migration. Some scientists think the spots may affect airflow around their wings.

“They have smaller flowers so butterflies with tiny proboscides can reach the nectar,” she said. “Butterfly bush (Buddleja) is also a good option, and of course, milkweed produces flowers which ...

Monarch butterflies with more white spots on their mostly orange-and-black wings are more successful at long-distance migration. Some scientists think the spots may affect airflow around their wings.