Non-migratory Butterflies
Butterflies that dwell in places with constant climates and relatively unchanging temperatures stay within that climate and do not travel far. Most of these butterflies tend to have shorter life spans, however -- more like three weeks versus the nine months some migratory butterflies survive to lay their eggs in areas where their offspring can thrive.
Migratory Butterflies
Butterflies near the Pacific Ocean, for example, stay during the rainy season, then head toward the Atlantic, following the warm weather and the rains. Sulfur Butterflies in Panama migrate according to the effects of El Nino, which can spike the growth of plants the butterflies need to survive. The number of Sulphur Butterflies in the area depends on the number of these plants.
Monarch Butterflies
Monarch Butterflies migrate all the way from Southern Canada and the Northern United States to Mexico, to seek warmer weather during colder times of the year. Once a new generation is hatched, the location to where they migrate north depends on the season and climate temperature. The Monarch Butterflies of Costa Rica, however, do not migrate because the warm, humid climate suits them just fine year-round.
Where Have They Gone?
There are less butterflies in many places butterflies used to live, due to changes in habitat. With so many climate and environment changes, butterflies have to migrate to new places in different habitats, where the plants and temperatures are suitable for reproduction.