Monarch Tagging & Butterflies

Missouri Department of Conservation: Citizen Science

Monarch Tagging & Other Flutterbys: Tag a butterfly, Help Science

Spend the morning chasing butterflies and become part of a community science project. We'll search for migrating monarchs, learn how to safely catch and tag them, then release them to continue their incredible journey to Mexico.

Along the way, you'll discover how native plants support butterflies and other pollinators, how to identify some of Missouri's most common species, and why healthy habitats matter. Every monarch we tag adds valuable information that helps researchers better understand migration routes and population trends.

Whether you're into photography, hiking, wildlife, or just looking for an excuse to spend a beautiful morning outdoors, this is your chance to experience conservation in action. Dress for the weather, wear long pants, and bring insect repellent as you'll be wandering through butterfly habitat throughout this adventure. No prior experience is necessary.

Here is the link from our MDC public page for both programs.

Additional Information:	Instructed by:
The program will take place at Platte Ridge Park near the pond/shelter house. Join a conservation educator for a morning experiencing local butterflies and potentially contribute to the Community Science of tagging monarchs. Participants will learn about local butterflies, their lifecycles, role as pollinators and the monarchs’ unique journey to Mexico. Participants will use butterfly safe nets to capture butterflies they encounter. Monarchs will receive small tags with ID numbers to help scientists track monarch movements and population numbers. Dress for the weather. Insect repellent and long pants are recommended.	Kathleen Savaiano
Cancellation Policies: You must cancel your registration before Friday, September 18, 2026.
Age Policy: All registrants for this event must be between 5 and 99 years of age by 9/19/2026.