BIRMINGHAM, Ala — Monarch butterflies are making their annual southbound migration through Alabama, drawing residents and visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the brightly colored insects as they flutter across the state. The migration typically begins in late August and peaks from mid-September through October, with hundreds of monarchs reported on peak days in the latter half of the month.
Baldwin County and the Alabama Gulf Coast see some of the highest concentrations, with Fort Morgan and the grounds of the Grand Hotel in Fairhope recognized as reliable hotspots for monarch sightings. In October 2019, Baldwin County recorded more than 350 individual monarchs in a single day, highlighting its reputation as the state’s premier location to witness the migration in action. While monarchs can be observed throughout Alabama, the southern and coastal regions offer the best opportunities due to the abundance of milkweed—an essential food source and resting stop for the butterflies.
Milkweed, rich in toxins that most wildlife avoid, is critical for monarchs: its leaves nourish caterpillars and provide adults with the cardenolides that help deter predators. Southern Alabama’s climate and plentiful milkweed make it especially attractive for migrating butterflies, supporting both observation and ongoing conservation efforts.
Public gardens and nature centers across the state, including Huntsville Botanical Garden, host monarch tagging events during the peak season. These sessions allow participants to learn about the migration and to help track the butterflies’ progress toward their winter sites in Mexico. The spectacle can be enjoyed with minimal equipment, though binoculars or a camera with a long lens are recommended for unobtrusive viewing.
Monarchs will remain visible through early November, with the largest numbers passing through Alabama over the next several weeks.