Monarch Butterflies

The Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) is one of New Zealand’s most recognised butterflies. It is an introduced species, but has become well established and is commonly seen in gardens, coastal areas, and other open habitats where its host plants grow.

Monarch caterpillars feed on swan plants and other milkweeds, while the adults are well known for their bright orange and black wings. In New Zealand they are especially familiar in late summer and autumn, when adults and caterpillars are often seen around planted swan plants.

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