On the Move: Monarchs and Other Animal Migrations

NEW COURSE ALERT!
Why do animals migrate? What makes the monarch’s journey so unique? Who else in the animal kingdom sets out on an annual pilgrimage? Tune in with MJV staff to learn about the ins and outs of migration across the speciescape. In this course, you will learn about what defines a migration and why different animals migrate from season to season. We will also dive deeper into a variety of species and the treks they make as they fly, swim, gallop, and slither across landscapes to find the resources they need for survival. This course will cover the migrations of bats, bugs, birds, and more, before focusing in on the monarch migration in closer detail. Then, we will examine their migratory pathways, overwintering habitat and behavior, and biological processes that make their migration possible.
  • Class type: Live, Interactive on Zoom call
  • Date: December 8, 2026
  • Time: 1:00 - 2:30pm Central Time
  • Language: English
  • Instructors: Alexa Koch and Alyssa Taylor
  • Course Fee: $20 ($10 for students, teachers, and seniors)

Note that users will be prompted to create an account in order to register for and access the course.

If cost is a barrier to your participation and you would like to request financial support, please email learn@monarchjointventure.org.

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ABOUT THIS COURSE

Why do animals migrate? What makes the monarch’s journey so unique? Who else in the animal kingdom sets out on an annual pilgrimage? Tune in with MJV staff to learn about the ins and outs of migration across the speciescape. In this course, you will learn about what defines a migration and why different animals migrate from season to season. We will also dive deeper into a variety of species and the treks they make as they fly, swim, gallop, and slither across landscapes to find the resources they need for survival. This course will cover the migrations of bats, bugs, birds, and more, before focusing in on the monarch migration in closer detail. Then, we will examine their migratory pathways, overwintering habitat and behavior, and biological processes that make their migration possible.

Date: December 8

Time: 1:00-2:30 pm CT, (2:00 Eastern, 12:00 Mountain, 11:00 Pacific)

  • After attending this course, participants have access to the recording. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions via email or on discussion boards before or after the live session. 
  • 1.5 Clock hours can be given to educators for teacher license renewal, Master Gardeners/Naturalists looking for continuing education hours, and anyone else looking for a certificate. Just email us!

Testimonials for other NECTAR Hub Courses

...the Mini Monarch Essentials Course is a must for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of Monarch butterflies and actively contribute to their conservation. I left the course feeling not only more informed but also inspired to take meaningful steps in preserving these incredible insects. Don't hesitate – join this course and be part of the Monarch butterfly conservation movement. You won't be disappointed!

Sara, Illinois

This is an excellent program for anyone who is interested in learning more about monarchs and monarch conservation but doesn't know where to start. The course is based in scientific research but avoids being bogged down by jargon and complicated language, and is a really comprehensive overview of the species, their biology, what threats face them, and how you can get involved and make a difference.

Catherine, Illinois

This course was great to get an understanding of the full situation with the Monarch butterfly. It helped to clarify parts of the lifecycle that I was not aware of despite having taught about butterflies for over a decade. I feel like I can better teach my students how to help Monarchs and other pollinators as well. The information was clear and well expressed to help me easily understand. In addition, the resources provided to look at in further detail are excellent and well put together.

Misty, Alabama

 

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