**Tagging Kits are available for pre-order and begin shipping in July.**
TAGGING KITS INCLUDE
- Your selected quantity of tags
- Tagging datasheet (also available here to be printed or filled out in Excel or another spreadsheet application)
- Tagging instructions
- Monarch & migration information
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Monarch Watch’s tagging program is a collaboration between Monarch Watch and community participants to study the monarch’s fall migration. We recommend using the tags the same year they are ordered to ensure the effectiveness of the adhesive. However, if leftover tags are kept in their original envelope and not exposed to the elements or temperature extremes, you may use them in the next tag season. We do not recommend using tags beyond that because the adhesive degrades. Monarch Watch tags are not available to be used for other purposes. Extra tags should not be applied to live monarchs outside of the fall migration period or other butterflies or moths, as this results in confusion about the project. Thank you for your support of research and interest in studying the monarch’s fall migration.
ORDERING TAGGING KITS
- **Monarch Watch tags are only shipped EAST of the continental divide**
- NOTE: Tagging kits are non-refundable.
- The fall migration season is from August–November. This is the only time of year we ship tagging kits.
See the Shipping Information tab to determine when you can expect your tagging kit to arrive. Shipping begins in July for fall migration.
WHEN WE SHIP TAGGING KITS
- We only mail tags during the fall migration season.We are not able to mail tags earlier in the year.
- You will receive your kit in time for fall migration in your area. Use the map and chart below to determine your approximate delivery time.
- All preorders from January 1–July 21 will be shipped in July to arrive ahead of the migration in your area. Not all tags ship at the same time. Orders placed after July 21 should arrive within 10-15 business days but priority will be given to preorders and areas that will experience the migration first.
HOW WE SHIP TAGGING KITS
- Your kit will arrive separately from all other items.
- Tagging kits ship via USPS First Class Mail in brightly colored envelopes without tracking numbers.
- USPS First Class Mail can take 5-7 days to be delivered.
See our main Tagging Page for all details related to our tagging kits.
Please visit our main Tagging Page for complete tagging information, including:
Rearing Kits are exclusively for eastern monarchs which live east of the continental divide.
Information & Resources for Western Monarchs
There are two geographically distinct Monarch populations in North America. The eastern population overwinters in Mexico and breeds east of the Rocky Mountains. The western population overwinters along the California coast and breeds in areas west of the continental divide.
Learn more about the Western Monarch Population: