There has been much controversy discussing how captive rearing of monarchs influences seasonal migrations and what role they play in species genetics with regard to wild populations. Debates over whether captive reared monarchs have the ability to migrate and what factors influence successful migrations are wide-spread among butterfly enthusiasts and scientists alike. These articles discuss rearing both captive and wild monarchs, how monarchs respond to seasonal cues and what implications rearing practices may have on the species as a whole. Hints for successful home rearing of wild monarchs is also included.
Monarch Joint Venture, 2019: How Monarch Migration Works
October 8, 2015: Joint Statement Regarding Captive Breeding and Releasing of Monarchs
Raising Monarchs: Southwest Monarch Study
June 24, 2019: Monarch butterflies raised in captivity don’t migrate
June 24, 2019, NPR: Monarch Butterflies Born In Captivity Have Trouble Migrating South, Study Says
September 9, 2019: Concerns that captive breeding affects the ability of monarch butterflies to migrate
Still want more? Information about best practices, establishing habitats, and ways you can help western monarchs can be found on the websites of these amazing organizations: Southwest Monarch Study, Xerces Society, Monarch Joint Venture, Monarch Watch, Journey North