Monarch Butterflies in Virginia: identification guide and best places to start

The highest concentrations occur along the Atlantic coast during fall migration. Top spots include the Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge, Kiptopeke State Park, and Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. Inland, look for them in open meadows, along powerline cuts, and in gardens with blooming goldenrod or asters. You can also check our /wildlife/virginia page for more regional tips.

See our state wildlife page for the next step.

Spring migrants pass through in May and June, but the main show is the fall migration from late August through October. Warm, sunny days with light north winds are best. After a cold front, monarchs often gather in large roosts along the coast. Overcast or rainy days will keep them grounded, so check the forecast and aim for clear skies.

See our Monarch Butterflies guide for the next step.

Monarchs are the only orange-and-black butterfly with a slow, sailing flight. The viceroy mimics the pattern but has a black line crossing the hindwing and flies faster. Fritillaries are smaller and have silver spots on the underside. The easiest clue: monarchs glide with their wings held in a shallow V, while viceroys flap constantly. For more ID tips, see our /animals/monarch-butterfly guide.

See our state animal guide for the next step.

Mid-morning to mid-afternoon (9 AM to 3 PM) is ideal, as butterflies need warmth to fly. They are most active when temperatures are above 60°F. In late afternoon, they start looking for roost sites. Early morning can be good too if you find them sleeping in trees, but they won't be moving much until the sun hits them.

Plant milkweed (the only host plant for caterpillars) and nectar-rich flowers like butterfly bush, zinnias, and goldenrod. Keep a patch of unmowed wildflowers and avoid pesticides. Many Virginia gardeners see monarchs starting in midsummer. A simple patch can attract a dozen or more during peak migration. Check local native plant nurseries for milkweed species suited to your region.