Click here to view: “Monarch Butterflies”
This lecture is provided by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Boise State University.
This lecture is an introduction to monarch butterflies with an emphasis on what is known about the local southwest Idaho population. It will cover reproduction, life stages and metamorphosis, identification of sexes and differentiating monarchs from other area butterflies, migration of the Eastern and Western populations, overwintering, and the threats monarchs are facing that are leading to population decline. In addition, milkweed as the obligate host plant for monarchs will be discussed, including identification of local species. Lastly, information will be provided on what individuals can do to help this iconic butterfly and how to get involved with local citizen science projects aimed at protecting the species.
Presenter: Hollie Leavitt, Associate Professor of Biology, College of Western Idaho