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Monarch Butterflies

1K views 3 replies 4 participants last post by  murch 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
Besides woodworking, I enjoy working in the yard and have grown flower beds to attract Hummingbirds and Monarch Butterflies. We have planted Milkweed in several places and protected it from cutting or spraying as it is the only plant that Monarchs eat and lay eggs.
This is one plant that we had which was being eaten by the Monarch larva.

Plant Tree Terrestrial plant Insect Flower


We watched it munch away on the plant for several days and then it disappeared. However, we found the Chrysalis in a nearby location.

Plant Terrestrial plant Grass Macro photography Plant stem


We moved it into a terrarium to watch it and see if we would see the butterfly emerge.
Plant Wood Twig Terrestrial plant Beak


After this it was time to wait. About a week or so later, the Chrysalis turned black and the butterfly emerged.

Pollinator Insect Arthropod Butterfly Moths and butterflies


We let it rest for awhile and took it outside where it spread its wings and soon took off.

Pollinator Plant Insect Arthropod Butterfly


We think that this one may be the super generation which flies to Mexico for the winter. It is astounding that a Monarch Butterfly can make it that entire distance. Currently, the Monarchs have started the migration from the northern states and working their way south. If you live in the Eastern US, you can look for them as you may be able to see large groups of them especially in the early evening as they find a place to roost over night.
 

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#3 ·
I really miss seeing those. I'm originally from Upstate NY and my grandmother and I would often look at the butterflies and canons together on the farm. Not to mention I seem to recall several science "experiments" surrounding those lovely butterflies.
 
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