Date: 07/03/2011

Number: 1

Another very good day for emerging Monarchs in our blackberry milkweeds. I went back twice (3 hours total) and saw perhaps as many as 12 new emergees. At one time, just standing still in the patch, I kept spotting new butterflies or new ones would crawl up a blackberry stem until I had six or maybe seven new Monarchs within ten feet of me. Quite a thrill.
I also saw an old, worn male who was responsible for some excitement. He made several flights through the patch, stopping now and then to soak up sun. Suddenly, he spotted and captured a female....I'm not sure if she was a newly emerged one or maybe one from a day or two ago......at any rate, a very young, strong butterfly. He captured her and they fell down in the patch. There he struggled to fly off with her, but I think he didn't have the strength. Gotta give him credit; he sure isn't ready to quit.
Between today and yesterday, I wouldn't be surprised if two dozen Monarchs have emerged in our small blackberry patch of milkweeds.....all from one lady Monarch, if I'm not mistaken.
They looked healthy and certainly have had good luck on their side.
More reports later if events warrant.

Osceola, WI

Latitude: 45.3 Longitude: -92.7

Observed by: Pat
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