First Monarch sighted on 5/17. She left a good amount of eggs.
Waiting for eggs to hatch.
Waiting to see first Swallowtails of the season. First Red Admirals and American Ladies have left broods behind.
The stage is set and all hosts are in ready mode.
Great news for you!.
I have dozens of milkweed plants in pots throughout my yard, planted in my flowerbeds, and planted in several places in the alley. Unfortunately, because I live towards the center of Springfield Illinois, I think it takes longer for the monarchs to visit. Even though the weather has been beautiful and upper 80s during the daytime, I am still waiting to see the first monarchs.
I am going to post some information about types of raising chambers for group members who have not previously raised monarchs. It would be great if you also have some pointers on how to raise and release.
Hang in there. Sooner or later, you will get noticed. The more Milkweed the better.
Perhaps you could involve a neighbor or two to maximize your exposure. Butterflies like to go from garden to garden, so it helps if there is more than one place for them to go.
Setting up hosts and attracting butterflies is the first step in raise and release.
Posted by TerriCitySulpher butterfly from caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly.
Posted by TerriCitySulpher butterfly from caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly.
Posted by TerriCitySulpher butterfly from caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly.
Posted by TerriCitySulpher butterfly from caterpillar to pupa to adult butterfly.
Posted by LeafheadAsclepias sullivantii, the Sullivant's Prairie Milkweed. Taken at a way station in Middleton, WI
Posted by LeafheadCeropegia woodii Hoya carnosa Both plants bloom at night and attract lots of cool moths
Posted by LeafheadCeropegia woodii Hoya carnosa Both plants bloom at night and attract lots of cool moths
Posted by DAB456What kind is this? I think I know, but would like another opinion.
Posted by bigpawbulletsNot sure what these guys are. But suddenly we seem to be getting a few of them in the "Habitat":
Posted by bigpawbulletsSilly meme. But an attractive butterfly. Photoshopped or real?
Posted by MikeECI posted this earlier In the Gardeners group, but had actually intended to post it here. Those of you who are members of both groups get to see it twice ?
Posted by MikeECI posted this earlier In the Gardeners group, but had actually intended to post it here. Those of you who are members of both groups get to see it twice ?
Posted by LeafheadMy latest visitor to the feeder, a Hackberry Emperor
Posted by MikeECI managed to overwinter three Eastern black swallowtail chrysalises in my unheated garage and released them about a month ago.
Posted by MikeECI managed to overwinter three Eastern black swallowtail chrysalises in my unheated garage and released them about a month ago.
Posted by MikeECI managed to overwinter three Eastern black swallowtail chrysalises in my unheated garage and released them about a month ago.