Monarch Butterflies

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Still Waiting...

November 16, 2014

Dear Friends:

I'm sorry to report that there are few monarchs in El Rosario — only 10 trees at the most. Our impression is that they are arriving slowly and in small numbers.

We still hope that the massive arrival will take place within the next few days, and that the population will be bigger than last year, as some comments assure. I should keep you updated.

I was this morning going up to El Rosario. The entrance is absolutely restricted to tourists in this moment. They are allowed to go only as far as the Llano de los Conejos and, guides say, many of them leave upset because they can hardly see any monarchs flying. 

However, the officals of the Reserve have striclty recommended to leave the small colonies in peace so that monarchs can find their sites in absolute silence and empty. 

Way into the Sanctuaries the humidity conditions are excellent (high humidity), but bright sun and not intense icing yet at all. 

One man described that the major population is in a point called Los Arcones. There are only five trees that are partially covered, about 30-50%. (It's a way before reaching El Campanario, the most populated point. The other point is Los Letreros.)

The weather is rather sunny most of the days now. Soft wind blows in different directions.  Once in a while during the day it gets a little cloudy and chilly. In all, the climate conditions are excellent for Monarchs to arrive to their Sanctuaries. 

As you can see (photo gallery), everyone is ready to welcome monarchs and tourists to the sanctuaries and to our communities. Guides are waiting, the admissions stands are ready, and the horses are standing by. Small restaurants are open and offering their warm, delicious local Mexican dishes. Crafts stores and stands are open, some with children selling goods to support the family with extra income. The whole community is in great expectation, certain that the monarchs are on their way.

Estela Romero
Journey North's Local reporter
Angangueo, Michoacán, México