Monarch Butterflies

One of the most captivating attractions at West Lynn Garden is our Butterfly House, where visitors can witness the entire life cycle of the Monarch butterfly—an unforgettable experience for all ages.

From December to April, the Butterfly House comes to life with hundreds of Monarch butterflies, along with eggs, caterpillars and chrysalises in various stages of transformation. It’s a rare opportunity to observe nature’s magic up close.

Whether you're visiting with family, a school group or on your own, the Butterfly House offers a unique and educational experience.

The Life Cycle of a Monarch Butterfly

Egg Stage

  • A female Monarch lays up to 300 eggs on the underside of Milkweed (Swan Plant) leaves.

  • Within 7 to 10 days, the eggs hatch into tiny caterpillars.

Caterpillar (Larva) Stage

  • The first meal? Their eggshell!

  • Over the next 9 to 14 days they grow rapidly, shedding their skin four times as they devour the Swan Plant.

Chrysalis (Pupa) Stage

  • Once fully grown, the caterpillar attaches itself to a plant, forming a J-shape before transforming into a vibrant green chrysalis with golden dots.

  • A remarkable metamorphosis occurs—developing wings, antennae and complex eyes.

Emerging as a Butterfly

  • The butterfly breaks free from the chrysalis on a warm, sunny day.

  • It pumps and dries its wings before taking its first flight.

  • Over the next few days it feeds on nectar using its long, tube-like tongue called a proboscis.

Male versus Female Monarchs

  • Females have darker wings with wider veins.

  • Males have two black spots on their lower wings, which release pheromones during courtship.