The diagram illustrates the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly, detailing its stages from migration and reproduction to full development. Overall, the process consists of four main stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult butterfly, with seasonal migration occurring at the beginning and end of the cycle.
Initially, adult Monarch butterflies migrate north to find suitable breeding grounds. Once they arrive, they mate, and females lay eggs, usually on milkweed leaves. After about fourteen days, the eggs hatch into larvae, also known as caterpillars. During this stage, they feed on milkweed to grow rapidly. Once fully developed, the larva attaches itself to a branch or leaf to begin the next phase.
Following this, the caterpillar transforms into a pupa, forming a chrysalis where metamorphosis occurs over ten days. Eventually, an adult butterfly emerges. Once fully matured, it migrates south to warmer regions, where it remains for six months before returning north to reproduce, ensuring the cycle continues indefinitely.