"Small groupings and single monarchs were passing overhead at treetop level and higher. We counted for 15 minutes and reached 95. The flow was steady for about an hour then tapered off as the temperature lowered. We drove up last weekend and saw none, but today it was amazing." Asheville, NC    September 28, 2014

A Second Wave
In the Midwest, monarchs are continuing to make their way across the prairie. After a lull, a second wave of peak migration was reported by several observers in Iowa.

A Surprise
From his prairie habitat in central Iowa, John Clayton sent pictures of monarchs roosting on sunflowers. Since roosts are typically found on trees, why didn't these monarchs seek similar shelter?

To Gregg Lee, who has observed similar behavior in Texas, this is not unexpected

"Whether monarchs roost at all depends on temperature and lipid levels. Apparently they usually do, but hungry monarchs in warm temps may stay on food plants overnight, or move to roosts only after sunset."

Compare Years
These comparative maps show the migration is a bit late this fall, but monarch numbers are definitely higher. North winds are predicted for Friday so get ready to see the butterflies fly!