How Fast Is Monarch Butterfly?

Monarch butterflies migrate up to 5,000 km at 32 km/h — across multiple generations, since no individual lives long enough to make the round trip. They are the only insect that crosses entire continents in seasonal migration.

Monarchs use a sun-based compass, with internal correction for time of day — they always know which way south is, no matter when they look at the sun.

• 5,000 km migration across generations
• The only insect to cross continents