This is obviously a bit of a throwback to earlier this summer and yet another gorgeous Monarch (Danaus plexippus) butterfly enjoying some nectar in a garden. Have you seen any more Monarchs hurrying their way south in November? Considering how warm it has been in some areas there is still a chance to spot one or two here or there after having emerged recently, trying to elude the snow.
Most of the Monarch butterfly population has already made their way to the wintering grounds in Mexico. Some of the species does overwinter in California, and counts will be conducted once again at many of these sites in the coming weeks. All of us, from non-profit education and conservation minded organizations like RTPI to the caring backyard gardener, can and are doing much to help save the Monarch. The global population rebounded somewhat last year, and let’s keep our fingers crossed that we will see an increase once again after this winter’s butterflies are surveyed across North America.
Scott Kruitbosch
Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
