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Monarch

Danaus plexippus

Photo by NauticalMuse
Published on Project Noah
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39.5606, -78.0204

Field Notes

Description:

This is the caterpillar stage of the monarch butterfly. The caterpillars feed on milkweed plants. The caterpillars sequester chemicals from the milkweed into their bodies, making them unpalatable to predators. The yellow, black, and white coloration are a warning to potential predators. They also have fleshy "horns" at both ends.

Habitat:

Monarchs prefer to lay their eggs in areas of open country which contain milkweed plants. This is essential, since milkweed is the main food for the caterpillars.

Reference Links:

Facts about Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

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Butterflies & Moths of the World
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Maryland Parks
Photographed
PublishedMarch 18, 2013

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