Date: 09/02/2020

Number: 40

Most monarchs were in the willow, walnut and maple trees singly and in pairs. Three groups of 5-6 and there were several still flying around. Tagged 19 today.

The 40 individuals were counted in the evening and included several small groupings in the trees.

This is the first roost of this year forming on Sept 2nd. It started forming about 5:30.
It forms in the trees of the Monona Butterfly Gardens.

Flowers at the end of their blooms include Purple Cone Flower, Black Eyed Susan and Phlox. Annuals blooming include Zinnias and Marigolds. The New England Asters and Sedum have not yet started.

Overnight temperature was around 65F

There was a strong breeze from the southwest. the roosts formed on the northeast branches of the trees. There is a group of 20 or so trees and shrubs in this low valley. The dew settles heavy in this area.

This photo was taken the next morning. This roost grew to over 35 individuals scattered in this Dogwood bush about 6-10 ft off the ground. I was able to tag 18.

Monona, IA

Latitude: 43 Longitude: -91.4

Observed by: Jim
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