The larval stage of monarch butterflies, caterpillars, eat milkweed. Adult monarchs feed on flower nectar and dew. Monarchs leave a bad taste in the mouth of those who eat them.
Predators learn that the distinct coloration of the monarch is a warning sign.
Their enemies will stay away, which helps the survival rate of the butterflies. Monarchs migrate up to 3,000 miles to escape the winter weather and reach warmer climates. The monarch butterfly is Illinois state insect.