It’s easier then you think to experience the wonder and transformation of a butterfly.
Monarchs only lay their eggs on Milkweed. That’s where you will find Caterpillars like this one. When they hatch, they are very small.
In South Dakota we have several varieties of native milkweed. Common milkweed is tall with balls of gorgeous pink flowers that smell like heaven. 
swamp milkweed is more dainty and found in wet locations. I found cats today in the flowers of a plant. I also saw a monarch butterfly land on a swamp milkweed. I will keep an eye on that one.
All they eat is milkweed.
In August, I will start tagging them for their flight to Mexico. You can purchase the tags at Monarchwatch.org.
You can find the plants growing in parks, detention ponds and roadsides.
Elaine Fritz, South Dakota Master Gardener 