Every summer we have Monarchs laying eggs on the milkweed and butterfly weed. I've planted tons of it so they have lots of food. I also had hubby help me build some hatchery boxes. Monarch eggs have a tough time. They have many predators from wasps to mice. So taking the eggs to a protected place gives them an almost certain chance to make it to the butterfly stage. On their own it's only 1 or 2 in 10 eggs that make it!
These are pics from 2 years ago when I released over 200 Monarchs! :D
But this year, I only see one flitting around occasionally. And I've yet to find a single egg. No caterpillars, nothing. :( What happened? Was it the hurricane while they were migrating back up north? I hope they show up soon so I can raise some more. My granddaugher Zoe likes to help. She says they tickle when you hold them.
The butterfly weed is in full bloom. A few bees have found it (another thing that seems in short supply this year).
Do you have any Monarchs in your gardens?
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