Date: 09/26/2022

Number: 100

Actual count is probably much higher. A cold front moved through yesterday (09/25) with continued northerly winds though this morning. Was out for about 15 minutes and was able to count 100 or more in that time. I was able to identify them as they flew over. I was making sure because we have had quite a number of smaller Queen Butterflies in the area over the past few days.

[Additional information contributed by observer, added by Journey North, 09/26/2022]:

I count the number of butterflies in a given time that fly through the area and usually multiply by two to account for the front yard also, especially when there are a large number as there was today. I normally count for 10 to 15 minutes. Picture is of my "counting site".

Most of the Monarchs through the day were flying between "head high" to the top of the trees, say 30 feet or so. All have been flying south with the breeze, which has been consistent at about 10-15 mph from the northeast through the day. Very few stopped on what few flowers I have. The local drought is much worse than even a few miles to our north and south where much more precipitation has fallen; and where there are many more flowers. When I put the sprinkler on in the front yard this afternoon, seemed like every butterfly around came to "play" in the spray.

A further note - All of the butterflies I've see these past few days; Monarchs and Queens, all look quite healthy and strong.

Rule, TX

Latitude: 33.2 Longitude: -99.9

Observed by: James
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