Date: 10/10/2025

Number: 78

Arrived to the tip area of Point Pelee National Park approximately 18:30, after receiving reports of lots of activity on the east side of the tip. Strong wind SW 21 km/h gusting to 33 km/h, partly cloudy skies, 19°C, humidity 53%, dewpoint 9°C, barometric pressure 102 kPa and falling. Perfect conditions for a Pelee roost. Had a quick look at last night‘s roost, which was empty due to the high winds. Headed immediately to the southern end of the West Path and out onto the East Beach. Scanning with my binoculars, I was able to locate the first individual on a small Mulberry tree just a few metres north. It was low down in the lee of the wind. Immediately started sighting others. Many singles and small groupings. The biggest grouping was 18 pictured in the photo above. Standing on beach level, which is below forest level, most were just above head height, some at eye level and a couple at waist level. The highest were about 5 m up in a Hackberry. All had an eastern exposure. The majority were on Mulberry trees, a few chose Hackberry, including Hackberry with completely dried up leaves, one was on a denuded Wild Grape. The southwest wind was warming the air as it fetched across Lake Erie. All Monarchs were well situated to be protected from the wind but still benefit from its warming effect and perfectly placed to catch the first of the suns rays in the morning. I suspect there may have been many more that we did not sight as sunset was before 19:00 and we were still searching after sunset. Visitors who joined the evening hike were very fortunate as we have had many nights in the past week with no sightings. All were very thrilled. Low of 12°C expected overnight with 65% chance of light rain. North wind, sunny skies and 12°C forecast at sunrise tomorrow. I suspect they will be quickly on their way. They have a long journey to catch up to the ones I have been reading about reaching Texas.
Two observed with damaged wings; the rest in pristine condition.
Observations done with binoculars and naked eye.

Leamington, ON

Latitude: 41.9 Longitude: -82.5

Observed by: Laura
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