The Monarch (Danaus plexippus) is one of the most iconic and well-studied butterflies in the world. Known for its striking orange and black coloration and its extraordinary migratory behavior, the Monarch is a member of the family Nymphalidae and the subfamily Danainae (milkweed butterflies). Monarchs are highly adaptable and found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, gardens, forests, and agricultural fields. They are closely associated with milkweed plants, which are critical for their life cycle.