Migrant 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
Read MoreBaltimore Checkerspots looking magnificent
I have been very lucky to have success finding several Baltimore Checkerspot (Euphydryas phaeton) butterflies in the gardens of RTPI in the past month. These uncommon but unmistakable creatures have all been nectaring on our flowers, mostly partaking in the Eastern Purple Coneflower (Echinacea purpurea). Spotting and photographing them is always a wonderful midday break on a warm, dry day so I figured hey, why not share some more of the photos? Sometimes you have to stop and simply appreciate a beautiful species like this one that reminds us all while we care about nature, work for...
Read MoreMonarchs moving
I have finally been seeing more Monarchs recently and recorded several passing through the grounds of RTPI in the past few weeks. However, they have been essentially doing only that – moving by and not cooperating! I was sitting down in our garden last Friday changing lenses and naturally that was one when decided to stop and feed directly in front of me. I fired off literally two shots before it moved on. How are their numbers looking to everyone else across the continent?
Read MoreGreat Spangled Fritillary butterfly at RTPI
Here’s a Friday evening butterfly, the Great Spangled Fritillary, that was one of a few in the RTPI gardens earlier. Enjoy your weekend and the sensational August night! Be sure to find something natural to do and get outdoors as much as you can.
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