Monarchs are an iconic insect because they are large and easily recognized by their distinct bright orange and black coloration and are well known to many people across North America and around the world. Monarch butterflies have been widely used in classrooms by educators to demonstrate insect life cycles and metamorphosis.

This collaborative, hands-on challenge will help youth:

• Learn about the unique life cycle of butterflies
• Learn why the monarch butterfly is a flagship species representing many pollinators that contribute to our food supply and the health of our planet.
• Understand the challenges that impact the monarch butterfly's declining population including habitat loss, extreme weather, and pest management
• Explore ways to increase monarch habitat, its importance, and ways everyone can participate
• Understand the collaborative effort required to increase monarch population. Enhancing monarch butterfly reproduction and survival will require a collaborative and coordinated effort from farmers, government, private citizens and businesses

Most supplies needed are included in this pack, however for a complete list of materials needed to complete the activity, click here.

For the Storyboard presentation referenced in the guide, click here.

Are you interested in learning more about the curriculum, straight from the author and a 4-H educator? Watch a webinar all about the curriculum, available here.

What's in the Box?

This Kit Includes supplies for 2 teams of 4 youth:

• 1 - Facilitator Guide
• 8 - Milkweed Leaves Sheets
• 2 sets of 6 - Satellite Images
• 4 - Graph Measurement Sheets 
• 1 - Set of Land Management Practice Cards
• 2 - Half Page of Circular Factor Labels 
• 24 Green Food Circle Labels
• 100 - 3/4" Coin Magnets
• 2 - Strong Magnets
• Floral Tape
• Green Pipe Cleaners