Monarchs Are Back in the County — Help Us Track Their Return

📸 John Lowry

The first Monarch butterflies of the season have been spotted in Prince Edward County, and the news is spreading fast. Reliable reports confirm Monarchs along our South Shore, and sightings are also coming in from the north shore of Lake Erie. After their extraordinary multi‑generational journey north, the Monarchs are officially back in Prince Edward County, and June is one of the most important months in their lifecycle.

This is the time when Monarchs lay their eggs on milkweed — the only plant their caterpillars can eat. Every sighting matters, especially here in PEC, where our South Shore provides some of the most significant habitat for migrating and breeding Monarchs.

Help Us Document Their Return

We’re encouraging everyone — hikers, gardeners, cyclists, beach wanderers, and anyone who simply enjoys being outdoors — to record any Monarch sightings on iNaturalist. Whether you spot a butterfly floating across a field or a tiny caterpillar munching on milkweed, your observation adds to a growing body of open, community‑powered data that helps researchers and conservation groups understand how Monarchs are doing year after year.

About the South Shore iNaturalist Project

South Shore Joint Initiative hosts a dedicated project on iNaturalist called Biodiversity of Prince Edward County’s South Shore, created to track the incredible species that rely on this unique landscape. Monarch observations are a key part of that picture.

You can view and join the project here.

Once you’re on the page, you can explore recent sightings, learn how to contribute, and see what others in the community are finding.

Why Your Sightings Matter

Every observation helps:

  • Track Monarch arrival and breeding patterns

  • Identify important milkweed patches and nectar sources

  • Support conservation planning on the South Shore

  • Build long‑term data that scientists and land managers rely on

Even a single photo can make a difference.

Heading Outside? Bring iNaturalist With You

Before your next walk, paddle, or roadside wander, download the free iNaturalist app and snap a photo of any Monarchs or caterpillars you see. The app’s built‑in identification tools make it easy, and your contribution becomes part of a global biodiversity record.

Let’s celebrate the return of these iconic butterflies — and help protect the habitats they depend on. Here’s hoping for a summer filled with Monarchs across the County.