monarchs in New Zealand

Dr. James Adams jadams at carpet.dalton.peachnet.edu
Wed Apr 15 09:27:02 EDT 1998



> >There is some anecdotal evidence of migration from the North Island to a
> >mountain range in the South Island for the butterflies to overwinter. As
> far as I know, no overwintering site has been located. The evidence is only
> from observed flight patterns.
 
> I find this interesting, considering the mountains of the South Island are
> certainly much colder during the winter than the northernmost sections of
> the North Island.

And, if true, would suggest a strong magnetic (as opposed to solar) 
cue used for migration.  Don't forget that the mountains in Mexico 
where monarchs overwinter are typically just a few degrees above 
freezing for much of the winter.


        James


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