Based on 12,048 research-grade iNaturalist observations in Minnesota, Monarch is most often recorded in August; in Minnesota it behaves like a summer visitor / breeder. It ranks #1 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
Danaus plexippus
Monarch in Minnesota 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 Minnesota in August
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Peck's Skipper
Painted Lady
Black Swallowtail
Small White
Least Skipper
Eastern Tailed-Blue
Viceroy
Places to look in Minnesota
National ForestChippewa National Forest
Botanical GardenUniversity of Minnesota Landscape Arboretum
State ParkItasca State Park
State ParkJudge C. R. Magney State Park
National ForestSuperior National Forest
State ParkFlandrau State Park
FAQ
When does Monarch appear in Minnesota?
Mainly June–September, with the most records in August.
How common is Monarch in Minnesota?
It ranks #1 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in Minnesota (12,048 records in our sample).