Just received a report from the North American Butterfly Association that up to 10% of the Monarchs over-wintering in the El Rosario section of the reserve have probably died due to the intense rain and hailstorms. So first we have the lowest recorded population count ever, and now there already is a loss of 10% in one colony. This is definitely not good for the Monarch population.
That leads me to my current rant. I’m really getting tired of this wet, cloudy, cold, rainy weather. It’s become so bad that last night I am lying in bed, and all I’m doing is fantasizing about working in the yard, visualizing colors from the flowers and different plants. Then reality smacks me upside the head to remind me we’re supposed to have freezing temperatures over the next couple of days.
I’m not a person who does well with patience, but I’m reaaally raring to go in repairing the yard and making it the best Butterfly sanctuary they’ve ever had. Lots of hosts plants and lots of nectar plants. For the potential few to make it up this way from Mexico they’re going to need all the strength they can get to survive their journey north.
I’d also like to add that it kinda feels like I am awaiting special friends. I really haven’t seen them for a few months, and when I do get to see them again they’re going to be pretty beat up. I feel the same way about the Hummingbird and Martins. Now if I can just endure a few more weeks (I hope) of this wet, cold, weather I can start working on a place that these critters feel comfortable calling their new favorite, temporary home. Leecy and I already made a commitment that we are going to really try and earnestly track the numbers of Butterflies we help release.
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by texdr
2 comments
texdr - I know mine did, other than the ones that were in pots that I would bring inside. Although it’s still kind of early, I did load up on buying new Milkweed this weekend. Buchanan’s Native Plants has quite a few in stock, but they’re not cheap ($8.99).
What will really suck is if we have freezing temperatures again this week. I know I should have waited, but I had to start planting some things. It was driving me nuts with no color in the backyard.February 20, 2010 – 4:15 pm
isaac - I’m so used to seeing butterflies, especially the sulfurs on those warm, sunny winter days. This year, nothing. I’m guessing that most of my mexican butterfly weed bit the dust, too.February 20, 2010 – 9:01 am