Masses of monarchs Migratory monarch butterflies (Danaus plexippus plexippus) cluster en masse on an oyamel fir (Abies religiosa) in Mexico, their overwintering grounds. (more) How Do Butterflies Migrate? Butterfly migration is a multigenerational marvel. Ask the Chatbot a Question More Actions Share Share Share to social media Facebook X URL https://www.britannica.com/science/How-Do-Butterflies-Migrate Feedback Corrections? Updates? Omissions? Let us know if you have suggestions to improve this article (requires login). Feedback Type Select a type (Required) Factual Correction Spelling/Grammar Correction Link Correction Additional Information Other Your Feedback Submit Feedback Thank you for your feedback Our editors will review what you’ve submitted and determine whether to revise the article.

　　External Websites Ask the Chatbot a Question Written by Melissa Petruzzello Melissa Petruzzello is Assistant Managing Editor and covers a range of content including plants, algae, and fungi; insects and spiders; and renewable energy and environmental engineering. She also handles... Melissa Petruzzello Fact-checked by Britannica Editors Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree.... Britannica Editors Last updated Nov. 6, 2025 •History Table of Contents Table of Contents Ask the Chatbot Most butterflies are light enough to drift on a breeze, yet millions of these fragile insects migrate across continents each year. With the possible exception of the famous monarch (Danaus plexippus plexippus), migratory butterflies are less well-known than migratory birds but no less remarkable. Scientists have identified nearly 600 migratory butterfly species, found in both tropical and temperate regions and across every major butterfly family. Their journeys follow the changing seasons, the availability of flowers...

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