Food at the Overwintering Sites? Here is a unique feature of the monarch's winter habitat: Rather than provide food for millions upon millions of butterflies for five months, its cool temperatures allow monarchs to SAVE energy. Survival of the Fattest Running out of fat is a common cause of death. "Monarchs that you see littering the ground have usually starved to death," says Dr. Calvert. Habitat The place and conditions where all of an organism’s needs for life are met. Food, water, shelter and space are key components of an organism’s habitat.   No Food for Five Months! But How Do Scientists Know? Scientists say that the monarchs can survive all winter eating little or no food at all. Yet no scientist has ever watched a butterfly for the full overwintering season. Follow the links below for further reading. As you read: Ask yourself, "How do scientists know?" Look for the evidence that supports this amazing theory. Also look for holes in the theory! Further Reading Is Nectar Important in the Monarch's Overwintering Habitat? Dr. Brower's Lipid Study Scientists Don't Always Agree Dr. Calvert's Comments Naturalist Carol Cullar's Observations Other possibilities? Journaling Questions If it is true that monarchs do not eat while they are in Mexico, then when and where DID they get the food energy that they are burning now? A monarch tag weighs 10 mg. How many times that weight does the average monarch lose by the end of the overwintering season? If your weight were to change this much between November and April, how much would you weigh today?     Copyright 2006 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form