2. Do Monarchs move in specific directions or take certain pathways?

These research focus questions are intended to give directions to your study of Monarchs? Many questions remain unanswered about the fall migration of the Monarch population east of the Rocky Mountains. How do the Monarchs move across the continent, i.e. do they move in specific directions or take certain pathways? How is the migration influenced by the weather and are there differences in the migration from year to year? We need data to answer these questions and we need your help! Because Monarchs have a certain "charisma" and a fascinating biology and because its fun to have an excuse to collect butterflies, this project is also a good way to introduce the process of science and have people contribute to a scientific study. Through participation in this project we also hope to further interest in the conservation of habitats critical to the survival of the Monarch butterfly and its magnificent migrations.

With these focus questions guiding your work, proceed to the background information.