Based on 10,279 research-grade iNaturalist observations in North Carolina, Monarch is most often recorded in September; in North Carolina it behaves like a seasonal. It ranks #2 among butterflies recorded in the state in our data.
Danaus plexippus
Monarch in North Carolina 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 North Carolina in September
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail
Common Buckeye
Gulf Fritillary
Fiery Skipper
Cloudless Sulphur
Variegated Fritillary
Silver-spotted Skipper
Pipevine Swallowtail
Places to look in North Carolina
Botanical GardenCoker Arboretum
Botanical GardenDaniel Stowe Botanical Garden
State ParkFort Macon State Park
State ParkHanging Rock State Park
State ParkCrowders Mountain State Park
Botanical GardenNorth Carolina Botanical Garden
FAQ
When does Monarch appear in North Carolina?
Mainly August–October, with the most records in September.
How common is Monarch in North Carolina?
It ranks #2 by number of iNaturalist observations among butterflies in North Carolina (10,279 records in our sample).