Each fall, millions upon millions of monarch butterflies migrate from their summer roosts found in Canada and the northern region of North America to a number of main destinations in both Mexico and the U.S., where they overwinter until spring returns. The phenomenon is fascinating and is studied by experts worldwide.

Monarch butterflies have an air of whimsical charm; delicate and beautiful, yet brave and bold as well. They are the only known butterfly species in North America that migrates in spring and fall.
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Seeing a monarch is instantly uplifting the to spirit.
And seeing a swarm of them... is downright magical!
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This fall, as the annual monarch butterfly migration is now underway, we may see more than the average number of monarch butterflies here in South Carolina.
That's because one of the roads on their migration superhighway (called the flyway) passes right though the Palmetto State.
US Forest Service
So keep your eyes peeled for their fluttering orange wings and groups of them feeding on local blooms.
Back in the spring, we told you about the monarch migration northward.
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Although their movement follows the same general path, the butterflies making their way south this fall are four generations removed from those that began the migration northward months ago. And unlike the monarchs that spend the summer mating in the north, migrating monarchs tend to have larger wings (all the better to fly as many as 4,300 miles with) and a more brilliant orange hue.
Some monarchs are thought to stop and overwinter right here in South Carolina — and why not, everyone else loves to vacation here?!
Photo credit: Robert Winkler / Getty Images
Other overwintering locations in the U.S. include Arizona and parts of Northern Florida. However, most monarch butterflies will overwinter in Mexico.
The migration cycle begins in September and is thought to be prompted by changing temperatures and reduced intensity and longevity of daylight sensed by the monarchs.
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The journey southward takes place between September and November, although the actual dates vary each year based on weather and other factors.
At nightfall, they'll gather in pine, fur, and cedar trees, among other places, where they roost close together to keep warm until they can bask in the morning sun the next day.
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Have you noticed a monarch superhighway in your neighborhood lately?

Do you believe seeing one (or more) is a symbol of rebirth and transformation? We’d love to know the answer to either (or both), so feel free to join the conversation in our comments!

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