Do you love to observe butterflies? Have you ever wondered how to tell some of the common butterflies apart? Are you looking for an interesting project that connects you to the seasonal changes in butterflies species, abundance, and populations? Become a butterfly monitor!

Butterflies in the Great Lakes region start to take flight with the first warm and sunny days of spring, and making observations of both common and rare species contributes to a better understanding of the threats that butterfly populations face. If you are interested in learning more about butterflies and how your observations can help support their populations, the Michigan Butterfly Network is looking for citizen scientists- like you!- to contribute to long-term data collected across the state.

Butterfly monitors learn to identify the common butterflies, follow a series of simple protocols, set up a route, and make their observations throughout the spring and summer. The data collected by volunteer scientists supports butterfly conservation and is an engaging way to participate in science while learning about local wildlife.

Butterfly monitors must first complete a training session before they participate in the network.

If you are interested in learning more, join Detroit Zoological Society staff and butterfly monitors for online training. Options for additional in-person field training will be discussed at that time.

Registration is free and required for participation.

Register Here