Date: 09/06/2019

Number: 100

Afternoon and early evening observed two different areas of goldenrod filled with monarchs. Near sunset observed monarchs flying to roost in four different trees.

Editor's note: contacted observer for more details on this sighting

Observed monarchs in the afternoon of the 5th (beyond the normal 5-6 that I usually see). In the PM I watched them travel to roost on the northeast side of a cherry tree. Time of first sighting was approximately 6:15. Windy. Sorry, no specific mph.

Overnight temperatures on the 2nd night (the 6th) were mid 50's. The monarchs were found in two 3 different trees, 2 of them black cherry. Roosts were on the south sides. I actually estimated 200 based on a rough count of the monarchs seen in photos in their different groupings. This morning I was out with camera waiting for them to leave where they had roosted. Morning temp was 56. Minimal breeze. Most did not begin to leave until 7:30. A few that did returned to roost.

Sat. eve. the 7th. By the time I got home there were only stragglers not yet roosting. (6:15) Wind 5mph. Temp. 65 with overnight to be in the low 60's. three spots of roosting Location: all south side and the same black cherry trees.

With the exception of the first night, monarchs have not been protected from the wind.

I have 40 acres that is much like a nature reserve. Milkweed haven. The goldenrod likely covers 3 - 4 acres. For now a good B &B for the monachs! I have lived here for 20 plus years....this is my first experience with such a phenomenon!

Will continue to report as accurately as possible. Wish someone had invented a monarch counter but regardless, I will be joyfully embracing their presence until they leave.

Platteville, WI

Latitude: 42.8 Longitude: -90.4

Observed by: Jewel
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