An Uncertain Future:
The Monarch Migration is so unique; it has
been deemed an endangered biological
phenomenon. Habitat destruction, both in
Mexico and throughout its summer range in
the United States, changing weather patterns
and pesticides have combined to put stress on
monarch populations.
The migratory stopover in Wauwatosa at the
County Grounds is one of only a few known
sites in southeastern Wisconsin.
With a large development project looming, is
11 acres enough? The adjacent 55 acres of fill
will take many years before it is re-established
habitat. Will the disruption from construction
of new buildings and parking lots strain the
populations or even discourage their resting
here? The answers lie in the actions and
decisions we make today.
Donations can be mailed to:
The Park People
1845 N Farwell Ave
Creating a Lasting Legacy…
Milwaukee Wi. 53202
*memo: The Monarch Trail
Friends of the
To become involved or to receive more
Monarch
information, please visit:
Trail
…Preserving the Monarch Migration
Monarch Trail~Shrinking Habitat:
Butterfly habitat 2005 ~ 239
acres
A Natural Law:
or call: 414.454.0222
Located on the
“Plants grow in habitats to which
they are adapted.
If one changes the habitat,
one changes the inhabitants.”
~ Gerould Wilhem
County Grounds in Milwaukee
Watertown Plank Rd @ Hwy 45
Enter at the Milwaukee County
Parks Building
habitat in 2009 ~ 11
acres
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
The Monarch Trail is located on the
County Grounds in Milwaukee
9480 W. Watertown Plank Rd.
Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Friends of the Monarch Trail
Monarch Facts:
Mission Statement:
The annual monarch migration in North
America is considered to be the most famous
and astonishing example of insect migration.
The Friends of the Monarch Trail are a
growing and dedicated group of nature
enthusiasts who have worked to preserve a
portion of the County Grounds specifically for
the Monarch Migration. This land area cannot
be moved or replaced and must be improved
and enhanced in order for this phenomenon to
survive the pending development.
The life cycle of a butterfly is one of
“complete metamorphosis”. It completes four
stages of life, from egg to larva (caterpillar) to
pupa (chrysalis) to adult (butterfly).
Monarch caterpillars eat only milkweed.
We lose 6,000 acres every day in this country
to development.
How to tell male from female: the male
monarchs have a spot on each hind wing and
tend to be larger in size; the females have
darker veins on their wings.
Monarchs migrate 2,500 miles to Mexico to
overwinter.
Goals:
To educate the community on the
ecosystems and microclimates required for
this amazing journey.
This migration has been going on for
thousands of years—although scientists only
discovered the remote Mexican wintering sites
about 40 years ago.
To maintain public access to the migration
areas.
To restore the native plant communities
that support the monarch migration and
all of the unique wildlife that graces this
urban treasure.
Quotes Referencing Butterflies:
“Just living is not enough,” said the butterfly.
“One must have sunshine, freedom and a little
flower.”
~ Hans Christian Anderson
The first 3 generations live up to 6 weeks, the
4th generation lives 6-8 months. This is the
generation that migrates to Mexico and starts
the first new generation the following Spring.
May the wings of the butterfly kiss the sun
and find your shoulder to light on,
to bring you luck, happiness and riches
today, tomorrow and beyond. ~Irish Blessing
After the barely visible egg hatches, the tiny
caterpillar eats almost constantly from the
milkweed plant, shedding four times. By the
time it is ready to pupate, the caterpillar will
have grown to 2,000 times its original weight.
Monarch butterflies come from the north and
Canada. Many of them stop at this site. Here
they feed on nectar plants to gain strength for
their long journey to Mexico. The
geographical features drive them to this
location with its perfect elevation and the
habitat that sustains them. When the wind
currents are just right, the monarchs take flight
and continue their 2,500 mile journey, taking
part in this international Monarch Migration.
~