A monarch butterfly typically has a wingspan of three to four inches and weighs approximately half a gram.
Here's a more detailed breakdown:
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Wingspan: The most noticeable dimension is the wingspan, which ranges from 3 to 4 inches (7.6 to 10.2 centimeters). This measurement is taken from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other when the wings are fully extended.
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Weight: Monarch butterflies are incredibly light. Their average weight is about 0.5 grams. To put that in perspective, this is lighter than a standard paperclip. This lightweight nature is crucial for their long migrations.
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Body Size: The body of a monarch butterfly is relatively small compared to its wingspan, typically around an inch or two in length.
In summary, while the wingspan of 3-4 inches is the most commonly referenced "size" of a monarch butterfly, its weight is a surprisingly tiny 0.5 grams.
