Watch the Program

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Birth of a Monarch

In late August, near the shores of Lake Huron, a tiny caterpillar gradually transforms into a chrysalis and emerges as a monarch butterfly.
running time 9:37

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Soaring Over Land and Lakes

Like gliding aircraft, the butterflies rely on thermal air currents to travel vast distances, and they take rest stops on boats while crossing the Great Lakes.
running time 7:16

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Destination Mexico

Only in the 1970s, with the help of a tagging program, did scientists realize that North American monarchs flew to Mexico for the winter.
running time 9:37

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An Endangered Refuge

Illegal logging threatens to destroy the monarch's sanctuary in the highlands of Mexico.
running time 6:28

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Gathering Flocks

By the time they reach southern Texas, the monarchs have formed enormous flocks 50 miles wide. In Mexico, the Mazahua people celebrate their arrival.
running time 9:38

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An Awesome Spectacle

Tens of millions of monarchs drape the trees of their highland refuge. When spring comes, they wake from their slumber and begin the long journey north.
running time 6:49