What are the benefits and problems with raising and releasing monarchs?

While captive rearing and reintroduction have shown some success for other at-risk species in laboratory settings, this strategy is not currently warranted for monarchs. Raising a small number at home for enjoyment or to contribute to community science can be a meaningful activity, but the most effective way to support monarch recovery is by creating and enhancing habitat wherever possible. Because monarchs rely on natural environmental cues, bringing them indoors—especially during migration—can disrupt their natural behaviors. Captive environments also increase the risk of spreading diseases such as OE, bacterial, or viral infections. For those who choose to rear monarchs, it is important to understand these risks and take steps to reduce them. For more information, check out our Rearing Monarchs For Research: A Guide for Enthusiasts handout.