Pollinator Meadows
You think there are a few pollinator sources here? It may not be the most ideal mix of vegetation, and it may contain some non-native and even dominant or invasive species, but it is far better than a mowed lawn or some pavement, full of busy bees, beetles, butterflies and many other insects. Let it grow and keep it chemical free, folks! We can perfect it later.
Read MoreBusy Black Swallowtail
After seeing many Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes) butterflies and little else on the wing for much of the spring, they have dropped off in number as others increase. What have your observations been? I have been surprised at how (relatively) few Eastern Tiger Swallowtails have been in the air except for a week or two in May. The harsh and historically cold winter likely changed the lepidoptera landscape for us more than usual. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreCabbage White
Here we have the Cabbage White or Small White (Pieris rapae) butterfly feeding on a clover. While they are an introduced species and abundant, sometimes a pest to the crops they are named after, they still do have a beauty on a late spring day among the green and rapidly diversifying colors.
Read MoreMigrant Monarch
Today I was thrilled to see several dozen Monarch butterflies as I surveyed a classic fall migration spot on the Connecticut coast. While this total may far under historic sums seen there it is still better than the last couple of years. This male, sexed by the black patches on the hind wings, was one of the more cooperatives individuals. I’ll share more photos of them all week. What are your Monarch counts looking like? Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
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