Bark Beetle Threaten Monarch Habitat!

Go to this link to learn more.

http://www.earthweek.com/2009/ew091023/ew091023c.html

Not a good year for Monarchs

We had 16 eggs laid on the milkweed and only one successful caterpillar to butterfly.  I read a news story that there were forest fires in Mexico that reduced the Monarch population, (http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/754853.stm), and that is why there weren't as many butterflies this season.  So sad.  Here's hoping for next year!

Male Monarch

This male Monarch flew onto a milkweed to catch some supper while I was inspecting for eggs.

Northern Find!!

I'm up at my mom and dad's home in Northern Indiana.  I went out to take pictures of bubble bees on the milkweed blossoms and little caterpillar feet caught my eye!!  I was so excited!  Katie has named it "Sneaky" since it was sneaky about hiding.  I called my husband to have him check our milkweed at home and there are still no eggs or caterpillars.  Very strange!

Still Waiting!

Enjoy some interesting sightings on my milkweed while we WAIT for Monarch Butterflies to come visit.

Waiting!

Well...Here we are on June 20th and there are NO eggs yet. Last year we had eggs at the beginning of June. I wonder what is going on here. Very disappointed since we are going up to the lake for the month of July and won't be here to keep track. Do you think I can get my husband to check everyday since he will be here? Doubt it.

The milkweed is taller than my daughter and the same height as me, (5' 4"). Oh. Daniel is in his super hero costume. He really doesn't have a big tummy just stuffed his sweatshirt so that he would have muscles.

Metamorphosis 2009!!

It's that time of year!! There are 5 milkweed stalks this year in my flower garden. I can't imagine how many eggs will be laid. Anyone care to make a guess? Yesterday morning I saw a hummingbird flit by the milkweed. Butterflies can't be too far behind!