Discover the Official State Insect of Texas

Written by Megan Martin
Updated: September 7, 2023
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Every state has specific emblems and symbols used to describe its values and history best. These symbols can come in the form of trees, birds, mammals, flowers, and even insects. Texas is no exception to this. Do you know the official state insect of Texas? If not, keep reading below.

Let’s dive in! 

The official state insect of Texas is the monarch butterfly.

©Media Marketing/Shutterstock.com

What Is Texas’ State Insect?

Some states have both an official state insect and an official state butterfly. For Texas, their emblem covers both of these bases.

The official state insect of Texas is the monarch butterfly

State animal infographic for the official state insect of Texas, the monarch butterfly.
The Monarch Butterfly was declared “Endangered” in 2022.

Species Summary: About Monarch Butterflies

The monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus), also known just as the monarch, is a species of milkweed butterfly. With its orange, black, and white symmetrical pattern, it is one of the most iconic species of butterfly in the United States. 

Monarch butterflies were the first species of butterfly to have their entire genome sequenced. This has allowed us to develop a better understanding of everything from their migration patterns to their sleep cycles. 

Like other species in the order of Lepidoptera, which includes all butterflies and moths, monarch butterflies undergo a complete process of metamorphosis. They are born from eggs. Then, their larvae live in the form of caterpillars until it is time to build their chrysalis. After spending time in this stage, they will later emerge for a short time as a butterfly before passing. As adult butterflies, monarchs typically only live for around 2 to 5 weeks. During this time, they can lay over 1000 eggs. 

monarch butterfly on white flower

One of the most well-known butterflies, the monarchs are recognized for their distinct color patterns.

©iStock.com/Elenathewise

How Did the Monarch Butterfly Come to Be the Official State Insect?

The monarch butterfly fish became the official state insect of Texas on June 16, 1995. It was passed as a result of House Concurrent Resolution No. 94, 74th Legislature, Regular Session (1995). As one of the prime locations given the chance to see the monarchs on both their southern and northern migrations, monarch butterflies are a staple species and pollinator in the Lone Star State.

The House Concurrent Resolution No. 94 is the law responsible for the monarch’s status. In fact, the law itself reads: “The monarch butterfly is as beautiful and memorable as a Texas sunset, soaring above all other insects in its nobility and determination, and its unique relationship with Texas makes it a truly appropriate symbol of the majestic spirit of the Lone Star State.”

The photo featured at the top of this post is © iStock.com/MruthCotrofeld


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About the Author

Megan is a writer at A-Z Animals where her primary focus is birds, felines, and sharks. She has been researching and writing about animals for four years, and she holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with minors in biology and professional and technical writing from Wingate University, which she earned in 2022. A resident of North Carolina, Megan is an avid birdwatcher that enjoys spending time with her cats and exploring local zoological parks with her husband.

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