Conservation Status and What It Means for Landowners
Federal Status: Candidate
migratory monarch butterfly is Federally candidate and no state listing in Texas. Landowners managing for this species should be aware of applicable legal protections and consult with TPWD regarding management activities that may affect the species or its habitat.
Habitat Requirements
migratory monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus plexippus) is found across 254 Texas counties. This insect species depends on specific host plants, nectar sources, or habitat conditions throughout its life cycle. Managing for insect species requires maintaining diverse native plant communities, reducing pesticide use, and protecting breeding and overwintering habitat. Habitat loss and pesticide exposure are the primary threats to insect populations in Texas.
Wildlife Management Plan Implications
Including migratory monarch butterfly as a target species in your wildlife management plan demonstrates active management for a species of conservation concern in Texas. Your plan should document habitat conditions on your property, identify management practices that benefit this species, and establish monitoring protocols to track population trends over the 5-year plan period. Because this species carries conservation status, managing for it strengthens your plan and demonstrates the highest standard of land stewardship.
Texas Ecoregions
- Multiple Texas ecoregions
Texas County Distribution
254
of 254 Texas counties with documented occurrences
100% of Texas counties
Recommended Management Practices
These practices from the 7 pillars of wildlife management are most relevant to migratory monarch butterfly conservation.
Habitat Control
Maintain diverse native plant communities including host plants and nectar sources
Supplemental Food
Establish pollinator gardens and reduce herbicide use in management areas
Census
Timed visual surveys during appropriate flight seasons to document abundance trends
Erosion Control
Maintain ground cover to protect overwintering habitat
Include migratory monarch butterfly in Your Wildlife Management Plan
Our interactive plan builder walks you through selecting target species, mapping your property, and meeting TPWD intensity standards for your ecoregion. Flat rate pricing, any Texas county.
Start Your Wildlife Management PlanFrequently Asked Questions
What does the conservation status of migratory monarch butterfly mean for my property?
migratory monarch butterfly is currently Federally candidate and no state listing. This means the species receives legal protection and managing for it in your wildlife plan demonstrates compliance with conservation priorities. Active management for listed species can also open the door to conservation incentive programs.
How do I survey for migratory monarch butterfly on my property?
Survey methods depend on the species and habitat type. For migratory monarch butterfly, consult your ecoregion's TPWD wildlife biologist for recommended survey protocols. Document all observations with date, location, habitat description, and photographs when possible. Include survey results in your annual wildlife management plan activities log.