Based on 3,407 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Iowa, Monarch is most often recorded in August; in Iowa it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #1 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
Danaus plexippus
Monarch in Iowa by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in Iowa in August
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Painted Lady
Silver-spotted Skipper
Black Swallowtail
Pearl Crescent
Small White
Eastern Tailed-Blue
Red Admiral
Places to look in Iowa
Botanical GardenDubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Botanical GardenBickelhaupt Arboretum
Botanical GardenIowa Arboretum
State ParkPikes Peak State Park
State ParkCedar Rock State Park
State ParkWildcat Den State Park
FAQ
When does Monarch appear in Iowa?
Mainly July–September, with the most records in August.
How common is Monarch in Iowa?
It ranks #1 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in Iowa (3,407 records in our sample).