Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) Collection

The monarch butterfly is among the most easily recognizable of the butterfly species. They have two sets of wings and a wingspan of three to four inches (7 to 10 centimeters). Their wings are a deep orange with black borders and veins, and white spots along the edges. The underside of the wings is pale orange. Male monarchs have two black spots in the center of their hind wings, which females lack. These spots are scent glands that help males attract female mates. Females have thicker wing veins than males. The butterfly's body is black with white markings. Monarch butterflies are known for the incredible mass migration that brings millions of them to California and Mexico each winter.