Go Find It!

By MDC | September 1, 2022
From Xplor: September/October 2022
Body

Monarch Butterfly

Look for monarchs sipping nectar on New England asters, goldenrods, and other fall flowers across Missouri. For more on these amazing insects, flutter over to mdc.mo.gov/field-guide.

Amazing Migration

Monarchs fly to Mexico to escape winter weather. Peak numbers pass through Missouri in mid-September.

Orange and Black — Stay Back!

As caterpillars, monarchs munch milkweed, which makes them poisonous. Bright colors warn predators that adult monarchs taste terrible.

Tasteful Toes

Monarchs have “tongues” on their toes. When one lands on a flower, it knows in an instant if there’s nectar to eat.

Food Tube

A monarch extends its tubular tongue to sip nectar and curls it back up when it isn’t in use.

Flutter Fuel

Monarchs gain weight during migration by drinking flower nectar.

THIS CONTENT IS ARCHIVED

This Issue's Staff

Artist - Alexis (AJ) Joyce
Photographer – Noppadol Paothong
Photographer – David Stonner
Designer – Marci Porter
Designer – Les Fortenberry
Art Director – Cliff White
Editor – Matt Seek
Subscriptions – Laura Scheuler
Magazine Manager – Stephanie Thurber