| Keyword |
Description |
| Transmitters |
The small device that shows where each butterfly is, thanks to GPS |
| Habitat |
The natural places where the butterflies live and rest during their life and journey |
| Migration |
The long seasonal trip monarch butterflies make from North America to Mexico |
Scientists are using special GPS trackers to discover how mariposas monarca travel from the United States and Canada all the way to Michoacán, Mexico every year. This year, they placed 500 tiny solar-powered transmitters called BluMorpho on monarchs in Kansas. Thanks to these lightweight devices, scientists can see the exact path the butterflies take—over 4,000 kilometers! The transmitters use regular smartphone signals, making it easier for researchers to follow the butterflies as they cross the United States, enter Mexico, and finally reach the famous butterfly sanctuary in Michoacán.
Some butterflies have taken unexpected routes, flying through places like the Caribbean and Veracruz before arriving at their destination. GPS data shows important stopover spots where butterflies rest, and also reveals how weather or other conditions might affect their journey. Sadly, researchers are noticing that fewer butterflies are reaching Mexico each year. Two big reasons are that the places they live (their habitat) are being lost and there are more droughts on their route. By tracking exactly where the main problems are, scientists hope to think of better solutions to keep the butterflies safe.
Anyone who is curious can help follow the migration using a special app called Project Monarch. Knowing more about the monarch’s amazing journey gives everyone, not just scientists, a chance to care about protecting nature and these unique insects for the future.
Bridging words
These words sound similar in English and Spanish: Why not practice them now?
| English |
Spanish |
| Unexpected routes |
Rutas inesperadas |
| Destination |
Destino |
| Curious |
Curioso |
Time to discuss
- Why do you think it is important to follow the monarch butterfly’s journey?
- What are some dangers butterflies face during their trip?
- How can technology help protect the butterflies?
Let's write
Answer the following questions in one paragraph:
- Imagine you are a monarch butterfly. Describe what you see on your journey to Mexico.
- Why do you think protecting animal habitats is important?
