Date: 03/29/2022

Number: 11

I went out to the pastures twice today (so far). At midday it was 73 degrees F, cloudy, winds gusting at 16mph from the south, with 74% humidity. On each jaunt I saw multiple monarchs actively looking for milkweed and egg-laying. It was wonderful to be in their midst!

In the first outing I saw at least 6 females fluttering low to the grass looking for milkweed (over several acres) ~ sometimes coming very close to one another. I also saw them resting/sunning in the grass at times.

The second outing I saw at least the same number of females, but now also males sailing around. The females were chased by the males at times, causing them to spiral upwards for a bit. I saw females getting away and going back to milkweed-seeking ~ no captures.

The Asclepias viridis milkweed is definitely emerging at this time, so the monarchs are finding some good options for their eggs. There are also plenty of nectar sources: false garlic flowers, yellow thistles, wild blackberry blossoms, etc. and some blooming trees (redbud, pear, Mexican plum).

The monarchs in general seem healthy, good-sized, with slightly faded wings, but not too much tattering. They seemed to be in good spirits today, letting the gusty wind carry them, then busily seeking milkweed, choosing their own individual favorite spots to look.

This is one of the beautiful females as she finds a tender milkweed to lay her eggs on.

Dobbin, TX

Latitude: 30.4 Longitude: -95.8

Observed by: Kathy
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