It's a Season for Watching Monarch Butterflies Migrate in Las Vegas

You already know it’s prime time for bird migration in Southern Nevada, but you might see more butterflies passing through Las Vegas as well.

🦋 Monarch Migration

Monarchs are known for their distinctive orange and black wings, but they’re also the only species of butterfly to travel up to 3,000 miles during migration season. Those west of the Rocky Mountains travel by instinct from Canada and the northern United States to groves in California and mountains in Mexico each fall before returning in spring.

The peak of migration through the Las Vegas area runs from late September to late October, although that may extend due to the warmer-than-usual temperatures this season.

👀 Where to Watch

Go on a fall hike and see if you can spot a monarch butterfly. Red Rock Canyon is a great opportunity to see the insects, who like to feed on thistle, goldenrod, rabbitbrush, and milkweed in the canyon.

Monarchs like to take up residence at the Butterfly Habitat inside the Springs Preserve. Bring the kids and learn about the monarchs, as well as other species like the painted lady or blue morpho. You can also spot monarchs and a wide variety of small creatures at the Clark County Wetlands Park near Henderson and if you’re in the mood for a road trip, the Torrance Ranch Preserve in Beatty.

🌱 Monarchs and Milkweed

Milkweed is the preferred snack for monarch butterflies. It’s actually toxic, but doesn’t harm the monarchs, who in turn carry the milkweed in their systems, becoming toxic to potential predators. Somehow, they figure this all out in nature. The bright orange wings may be a warning sign to other animals plotting an attack.

Not all milkweed is considered equal, however. Most milkweed bought in stores and nurseries was grown with pesticides and other chemicals that are harmful to the monarch caterpillars. The Nevada Monarch Society is a leader in promoting safe, organic milkweed for monarch butterflies. The organization recommends the Special Projects Nursery for buying and planting safe native plants in Las Vegas.