Colorful butterflies are nearing Michigan. Here's when to expect them
Monarch butterflies are en route to Michigan with the nearest sighting in northern Indiana, according to migration maps.
On April 14, one adult female monarch butterfly was spotted enjoying dandelion nectar in Valparaiso, Indiana, according to the Journey North monarch sighting map, an environmental conservation organization that's part of the Monarch Joint Venture, a collective federal initiative to protect monarchs.
Monarchs have been sighted in the eastern half of the continental United States, including in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. They're nearing the end of their migration from overwintering sites in central Mexico and southern U.S.
April and May also mark the breeding period for monarchs. Female monarchs lay eggs on milkweed plants, considered a monarch's host plant.
Here's how to track Monarchs in 2026 and how to prepare for their arrival in Michigan.
How can I track monarch butterflies as they get closer to Michigan?
Reports of monarch sightings are available online through Journey North maps that track the migration. To report a sighting you need to create an account. Monarch Joint Venture also offers a feature to report sightings.
When will I see monarch butterflies in Michigan?
Map of the Monarch butterfly spring and summer migration. As temperatures warm, Monarchs return to North America.
In mid-April to May monarchs will return to Michigan to breed through the summer. During winter, the final broods fly to Mexico, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources said.
Where do monarchs go over the winter?
Monarchs travel as far as 3,000 miles to their wintering destinations in Mexico's Oyamel Fir Forests. During their travel, they only fly during the day then gather in clusters for warmth at night referred to as a roost.
Monarchs also winter in southern Florida or the Pacific coast — those that make there journey to California typically come from areas east of The Rocky Mountains.
How can I help monarch butterflies in Michigan?
Monarchs are not listed as an endangered species on the U.S. Endangered Species Act, however, the species were proposed to be included on the list in 2024.
- Report sightings through Journey North or Monarch Joint Venture to help track the migration.
- Stay up to date with the latest pollinator information through Michigan State University Extension.
- Plant a milkweed and grow a monarch habitat.
- Make a donation to the Michigan's Nongame Fish and Wildlife Trust Fund.
- Follow pollinator gardening tips.
Contact Sarah Moore @ [email protected]
