Are there monarch butterflies in North Carolina? Why yes, just when we thought all of the perks of living in North Carolina were already perfectly laid out in front of us, the magical northerly springtime migration of millions and millions of Monarch butterflies is about to turn that tide. Each autumn, the Monarchs migrate south to winter in Mexico. Conversely, each spring they migrate northward again. That means that you can get a front-row seat to the monarch butterflies in NC this spring when they head back north!

In previous years, the Monarch migration was quite impressive. Nearly 300 million beautiful butterflies headed back north during the spring! This year, the numbers aren't quite as high, but we can still expect to see these incredible creatures throughout our state.
Peter Miller / Flickr
The U.S. map seen here shows the usual flight paths for the winged creatures — and the Carolinas are a virtual MONARCH SUPER HIGHWAY!
Monarch Watch
But when do monarch butterflies migrate through North Carolina?

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From early May through early August, we can expect millions and millions of them to swarm through North Carolina roosting and feeding upon our cozy and tasty flora.
USFWS Midwest Region / Flickr
It's no coincidence that our state flower, the blossom of the flowering dogwood, is such a treat for the Monarchs. If you're lucky, you'll get to witness an entire swarm (also called a kaleidoscope) of Monarch butterflies where you live.
Johanna Madjedi / Flickr
When is the best time to see monarch butterflies in North Carolina?
When will they be most abundant? Based on this map on the Monarch Watch website, the best times to see them in North Carolina are from May through July.
Monarch Watch

We’re thrilled at the news that millions of monarch butterflies are heading through our great state. While the population fluctuates every year, we hope to see millions of monarch butterflies in North Carolina this spring. Are you planning anything special to see them? Be sure to share your sightings and photos with us! And did you know you can even set up your own butterfly house?

North Carolina is filled with amazing natural attractions, keep reading to learn about eight of them!

The 8 Most Incredible Natural Attractions In North Carolina That Everyone Should Visit

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Monarch Butterflies In North Carolina

Marisa Roman | April 05, 2020

What other animals migrate to North Carolina in the spring?

Butterfly migration in North Carolina is just one of the special springtime events that take place in the state. There are plenty of other animals that migrate through the state when the warmer weather hits. In fact, from mid-March through mid-May, North Carolina’s peak migration season for birds takes place! For those bird-watchers out there, you can expect to find quite a few heading through North Carolina during this time.

What are the best signs of spring in North Carolina?

While North Carolina doesn’t get as cold as many of the other states up north, there is still an excitement that comes about when spring finally hits. So how do you know when spring in North Carolina is here? A few signs to keep out include trees budding, butterflies arriving, and of course, blooms on flowers. According to the Farmer’s Almanac, blooms of daffodils and hyacinths are often the first signs of spring in NC.

How can I best enjoy nature in North Carolina?

There are so many different options for enjoying nature in North Carolina, especially when springtime rolls around. Some of the best ways to enjoy nature in North Carolina include:

If you want to enjoy nature in NC with some of the best of the best, we have a few good options to choose from. Check out these eight incredible natural attractions in North Carolina this spring.

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