Starting in September, monarch butterflies hit the road to search for a warm vacation spot for the winter months. Their relocation across the North American continent is unique among butterflies and similar to the migration of some bird species. Monarchs begin the trip as temperatures drop and daylight begins to decrease in early September. They can fly up to 3000 miles on this amazing journey.

Even more intriguing is the fact that the butterflies that migrate south to California and Mexico in the fall are the offspring of those who left those regions in the spring, and yet each generation overwinters in the same spots in each year. They inherit an internal road map telling them exactly where to go.

Kids are fascinated with monarchs, so these insects' life cycle and migration phenomenon are perfect springboards to get students fired up about science. Involve them in the monarch migration by constructing your own Monarch Waystation. The trip south is a strenuous journey so monarchs need places to stop and rest along the way. Nectar-rich flower blossoms and feeding stations are an important way to help the butterflies refuel.

The mission of MonarchWatch's Monarch Waystation Program is to create, conserve, and protect monarch habitats, and their goal over the next three years is the creation of at least 10,000 Monarch Waystations. Your students will be thrilled to participate and be a part of this important, nationwide project. Visit the Monarch Watch Web site for in-depth information about monarch butterflies and details about creating your own Monarch Waystation.

For more information on butterflies, check out these Kidsgardening articles:

Butterfly Gardening
Learning Soars in Butterfly Garden
Inviting Butterflies to the Schoolyard