Human activity poses a great threat to the monarch, particularly as deforestation destroys necessary habitat. Scientists believe that the monarchs use the position of the sun and the earth's magnetic field to guide them to their destination. Hundreds of thousands of kids in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico participate in monarch observation and conservation activities every year. Mexico is only a four hour drive from Austin. Spanish is the official language of Mexico, though many people speak native indigenous languages, and many speak English in addition to Spanish.
Milkweed grows in pastures , near roadsides, and on the banks of lakes and streams.
Humans have used milkweed seeds to create a salve for sores and as a serum for drawing out rattlesnake venom. Milkweed sap was tested experimentally by NASA as a rubber substitute. . The milky juice from milkweed is mildly toxic to humans.