Record all data before removing a tag from the sheet. You may use our downloadable Tagging Datasheet to capture your tagging information as you work. Report your data here.

Tagging Method

Carefully hold a monarch between your thumb and index finger along the leading edge of the butterfly’s forewings (close to the body, not the tip) and locate the discal cell (large mitten–shaped cell on hindwings). See Monarch Watch’s video for guidance. 

Remove a tag from the sheet by its edge (a toothpick might be helpful), place it over the discal cell of either hindwing and carefully apply pressure to the tag from both sides of the butterfly using your fingers. Press firmly for several seconds - the adhesive requires pressure to stick to the butterfly. Do not stick the tag to any other surface, such as your finger, before applying it to the butterfly. To be effective, the adhesive on the tag must be clean when applied to the wing.

Release the butterfly, making sure all of the information is recorded first!

Our tags were designed by Monarch Watch and do not hurt the butterflies in any way.

Submitting Your Tagging Data

Please submit your tagging data here. This allows us to compile the data more efficiently.

If necessary, you can email us a completed Tagging Datasheet. Double check everything to make sure your data is accurate and complete.