What do monarchs feed on in winter? Nectar sources at hibernation sites

Sánchez-Tlacuahuac, N., Pimentel-Equihua, J.L., Espinosa-Hernández, V. et al. What do monarchs feed on in winter? Nectar sources at hibernation sites. J Insect Conserv 27, 181–191 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10841-022-00433-z

 

This research article examines the nectar sources used by monarch butterflies during their winter hibernation in the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico. The study identified 29 plant species that monarchs frequently feed on, with Asteraceae being the most common family represented. The researchers observed a strong correlation between the number of monarch feeding visits and the abundance of certain plants, particularly those with white or yellow flowers. The findings suggest that promoting these plants in agricultural areas surrounding the reserve could help support monarch populations and mitigate the negative impacts of forest degradation.