Flight of the Monarch

Native Utah Milkweed

There has been a long-term decline of the Western Monarch butterfly population in recent decades. Wintering on the California coast, Monarch butterflies must find milkweed plants as they migrate in the spring since milkweeds are the only host plants used by monarch caterpillars. Toxic chemicals present in milkweeds render the butterflies poisonous to birds and other predators!

At least fifteen species of milkweed are known to be native to Utah.

Spider Milkweed (Asclepias asperula), also known as Antelope Horns, grow in the SLC Foothills. Look for them as you hike; the flowers appear from May to July.

More than beautiful, monarch butterflies contribute to the health of the planet. Butterflies — and other pollinators like birds, bats and bees — are vital in creating and maintaining the habitats that many animals rely on for food and shelter.
Let's continue to protect our natural lands  —  vital habitat for butterflies and more. For more information go to:

https://sites.google.com/utah.gov/monarchconservationinutah/identification-tips-milkweed

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_PLANTMATERIALS/publications/idpmctn13444.pdf

Gavin Noyes