Celebrate National Flight of the Monarch Day with iNaturalist

Flight of the Monarch Day is an opportunity to celebrate the growing movement to protect monarch butterflies and the astonishing phenomenon of their migration as their epic journey southward begins. On August 19th, 2023, is National Flight of the Monarch Day.

Join the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, with support from the Canadian Wildlife Federation, between August 19 to September 19, 2023, for a nationwide event to recognize the iconic Monarch Butterfly. Record your Monarch observations which will automatically be added to the  National Flight of the Monarch Day project . There are other activities and information available to download from the website here .

One of the most exciting aspects of National Flight of the Monarch Day is capturing the beauty of these delicate creatures through photography. Here are some tips for taking stunning pictures of monarch butterflies:

Zoom In: Get up close and personal with your camera to capture intricate details of their vibrant wings and distinctive patterns.

Natural Lighting: Natural light is ideal for showcasing the monarch's true colors. Opt for early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is softer.

Patience: Monarchs may flutter about unpredictably, but with patience, you'll have the opportunity to observe them as they interact with various plants.

The annual monarch butterfly migration is one of the most remarkable natural events, spanning thousands of miles from Canada to Mexico. However, monarchs face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and pesticide use. Documenting the migration through iNaturalist becomes an essential tool for conservation efforts.

If you are looking to take your efforts a step further consider joining the Canadian Wildlife Federation’s Monarch migration project to contribute roosts counts.

By capturing their beauty through photography, providing them with habitat in our backyards by planting native plants, and documenting their migration, we can play a vital role in preserving the awe-inspiring phenomenon of the monarch butterfly migration for generations to come.

Happy observing and conserving!

Posted on August 16, 2023 02:12 PM by acaciaf_cwf