Date: 10/17/2016

Number: 210

I am reporting this as Peak Migration rather than Roost because Monarchs in trees were active and easily flushed from perches. They would settle back though usually not to the same perch. I interpret this as weather sheltering, not roosting. (I could infer that they were there roosting during the previous night, but I did not see it.)

As sunrise overcast and dark. Strong South wind. 70 degrees 95% humidity.

Sun broke through a little about 0815 then slowly cleared to party coudy. I started a check at 0840 for an hour. Found many in large tree groves and also in many smaller groves and some isolated trees large enough to provide access under then and to break the wind. All Monarchs were were toward the north side of the tree or grove. I also saw a handful next to the groves feeding, usually on Broomweed. The only exception was trees next to the county road, where I assume traffic disturbs them. Whether motion, noise or headlights at night I don’t know.

The Monarchs in the photo are where they settled back after they “bloomed” when I approached.

No directional flight observed. .

The reason for Monarchs switching from Liatris to broomweed has become clear. Most Liatris have closed shop on flower production. Now just long stalks of seeds. There are a few liatris still blooming and many other nectar flowers, but broomweed is “ubiquitous,” flower covered and handy to the trees.

Glen Rose, TX

Latitude: 32.1 Longitude: -97.9

Observed by: Gregg
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