Research
Explore the captivating world of the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) through our cutting-edge research and science-based conservation efforts. Our science is incorporated in our reports and conservation and management plans, as well as scientific publications and presentations.
Monarch Telemetry
Throughout November and December 2025, with support from USFW and Ellwood Friends, scientists from A&M deployed ultra-lightweight transmitter tags on 30 total monarchs across three overwintering sites in Central California. This cutting-edge technology allows for individual monarch tracking, revealing important insights on daily and seasonal movements, migration patterns, and habitat use. The tags transmit data via Bluetooth through the ProjectMonarch app and the Motus network, allowing both scientists and the public to detect monarchs as they move.
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Monarch Telemetry
Photos courtesy of Kyle Nessen, Ruby Molinari, Fiona Reidy, Chris van der Heide
All handling and other research conducted under authorization by permits.
Monarch Movement Data:
Motus Station
A&M scientists, with support from the City of Goleta and Cape Fear Bird Observatory, built a Motus tower at Ellwood Mesa in Goleta, CA in the spring of 2025. In addition to the tower, they installed four nodes and two weather stations. What is a Motus tower? "Motus stations are specialized receivers used in radio telemetry to track the movements of flying animals, such as birds, bats, and insects. They allow researchers to study and identify important migration routes, stopover areas, and wintering locations and provide valuable insights on animal behavior" (Motus).
Motus Tower
Photos courtesy of Fiona Reidy, Chris van der Heide, Motus.org
All handling and other research conducted under authorization by permits.
Monarch Movement Data:
Project Monarch App
The Project Monarch app, a free app created by Cape May Point Science Center and Cellular Tracking Technologies, allows for real time tracking of monarchs with transmitter tags. Users need only download the app, ensure Bluetooth settings are on, and begin scanning in their area. The smartphone acts as a receiver to the monarch tracking device. Should a tagged monarch be detected, it will reflect in your app and contribute to valuable data collection when uploaded.
ProjectMonarch App
Photos courtesy of Fiona Reidy, Chris van der Heide, ProjectMonarch App
All handling and other research conducted under authorization by permits.
