Monarch Butterfly Migration (Asheville: gardens, title, rating)

[GuyFriendly]

I understand the migration of the Monarch butterflies is fickle, depending on weather a great deal and other factors to a lesser extent. I also understand that West of Asheville is a viewing area from the Parkway.

Does anyone know more that would help a photographer like me get close to the action when it happens?

I found this web site: Journey North's Monarch Butterfly Migration Tracking Project

An observer in Linville saw many Monarchs on Sept 21, so they must be getting close.

One of the best times to view migrating monarchs is after a cold front moves through, when the weather is clear and winds are blowing gently from the north, according to naturalists at the Western North Carolina Nature Center in Asheville.


The monarchs fly at treetop level or lower, with a tendency to cross east-west mountain ridges at low gaps. You might see them in greater concentration as they funnel through such natural crossing points.

Any other help is appreciated - especially if they are spotted in large numbers! Photos will be available if I get them!

[saucystargazer]

All I can tell you is that yes, its pretty spotty. A few years ago, when the parkway was closed around Craggie gardens, we went walking on it. In the tunnel right before the visitors center there were hundreds of monarchs hanging out. It was awesome. And of course I didn't have my camera.

If you want to try to sit and wait them out, you can try any of the overlooks south of mt. pisgah on the parkway. Heck, you might want to try calling the parkway now that I think about it, they might be able to tell you if they are seeing a lot or not.

[Rtom45]

Two weekends ago, my wife and I noticed an unusual number of monarchs around our house. Later that morning there were literally hundreds at Presque Isle when we took the dogs for a walk. It would make sense that the migration has moved to NC within that 2 week time frame.