Date: 07/20/2023

Number: 2

I have finally found the first two caterpillar's of the season. They are large, & I would have said 3rd instar with a week to 10 days to go before going into J position. I was wrong,
as One of them has gone into
J-position on 07/20/23. They noticeably lacking all of the traits & signs of 5th Instar. The SIZE IS That of new 4th Instar, Their frontal Filaments, horns (whatever the correct term is) are NOT elongated but short -- & the CATS did not use them in the explatory way one usually observes. I have a dedicated polinator garden including a Commong & Swamp Milkweed patch of about 500 plants in my yard, pesticide free with lots of nectar producing plants, a puddling station, etc. Normally I would have collected at least 100 hundred eggs by now; I have not found one. A harsh Winter so Sub-Zero Temps, and harsh spring and Summer have certainly extracted their toll. That's my opinion, and my observations. I will not be collecting Eggs or Cats, as I have been informed that the Monarch is endangered and it is illegal to do so. I don't know what to do to help -- so will just promote habitat building and check the journey north website for further infomation and guidance. Thank you! Sincerly, Diane U.

Drums, PA

Latitude: 41 Longitude: -76

Observed by: Diane
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