Learn About Monarch Butterflies In Piscataway Aug. 20

PISCATAWAY, NJ — The orange and black monarch butterfly is preparing for its annual epic migration, and Middlesex County can give you an up-close look at this amazing natural phenomenon.

Every year millions of monarchs take part in this long journey. As host of a Monarch Waystation, East Jersey Old Town Village is a great location to observe and learn all about the monarchs and their behavior. Monarch Waystations provide host plants like milkweed and nectar-bearing flowers for the butterflies. These plants allow them to gain energy to migrate.

This free event will take place at 2 p.m. on Aug. 20 at the Indian Queen Tavern at East Jersey Old Town Village, 1050 River Rd., Piscataway.

Rutgers Master Gardener Stephanie Karoly will discuss these amazing creatures, as well as the black swallowtail, which was named New Jersey's official state butterfly in 2016.

“I hope many people will attend this event and learn more about the monarch butterfly,” said Freeholder Director Ronald G. Rios. “These creatures are being threatened by habitat loss in North America, making migration difficult.”