Date: 09/09/2024

Number: 100

Went for a morning walk on the beach, heading north from duck lake. I immediately noticed adult monarch butterflies, and with the brisk wind coming off the lake they were definitely struggling to make their way.as I made my way up the beach I began to see more and more butterflies in and on the sand; mostly monarchs, some still clinging to life but the majority battered and drowned by lake last night. As I pressed on, a deep sense of sadness overcame me as I contemplated their dwindling population and their ordeal last night offshore. I live near the lake, have sailed, worked on tugs and enjoyed the water my whole life and I couldn't help but imagine what they went through overnight. Being so fragile and with such high winds coming up so fast last night, it must have been terrible for them. I thought of everything my family and have been through, my time overseas, divorce and more. Without even realizing I was doing anything, I began desperately trying to to help the living butterflies to the safety of the shaded wood line, and as if they were aware of my heart for them-perhaps they are-many that were still flying began to land on me and they piled on my shoulders and tickled my neck as I worked. Eventually I reached the boundary of the park, turned around and continued my mission as I headed down to my car. Before I left I gently removed my jacket and helped the dozen or so monarchs that were still with me into a nice, protected little spot where they could rest. Getting into my car I felt like I shared their struggles and felt their pain too. Hope they can hang on in this changing, ever-colder world. -William N. Hickman

Wabaningo, MI

Latitude: 43.3 Longitude: -86.4

Observed by: Jasmin
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