Date: 10/18/2017

Number: 16

I had to travel east to Northumberland County east of Toronto for a meeting, so went further east to check out fields near Grafton and Lakeport. A couple of monarchs seen on the way down flying south over Hwy. 401. In my Grafton field, I see that there has finally being a frost that darked the top leaves of the green younger milkweed plants, but clover appeared unaffected. Captured 16 monarchs to examine in one fairly small patch of clover. 10 females 6 males. All in great shape, with the feel of some wings suggesting that they recently hatched. Also a number of painted ladies.

Monarchs seen flying west along the Lakeshore Road. At Lakeport, at least 16 monarchs seen moving west slowly and nectaring as they headed west in another large agricultural field, often seeking sheltered areas of the field. Back west in Port Hope, 4 monarchs flying west along Lake Road.

Weather all week and into the weekend with temperatures above seasonal - probably due to the southwesterly winds that continue. Lots of sun with perhaps some cloud. By mid afternoon, no jackets required for sure. Got hot in the sun in sheltered areas. Temperatures about 68 - 70 F. May reach 73 F next Sunday.

Very few nectar sources remain

Courtesy of Don Davis

Grafton, ON

Latitude: 44 Longitude: -78

Observed by: Donald A.
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