Copy/Repost Hike

 

Net gains for everyone this past Saturday!  Martin graciously offered to squire us around in his vehicle as my truck couldn’t fit 3 of us and Russ’ vehicle was relatively low to the ground.  Our first stop on 25A, just beyond Wentworth, proved to be THE place where monarchs were fueling up for their migration south. Usually a significantly wet meadow most years, this summer’s dry weather made for dry footwear while slogging through the tall vegetation.  The monarchs preferred nectaring on the Joe-Pye-Weed, leaving the goldenrod alone.  We explored other areas, including two local tree farms where monarchs weren’t as numerous, but yielded beautiful views.  We found several mature caterpillars ready to form their chrysalis.  They'd better hurry!  We tagged a total of 47 monarchs.  All data will be submitted to the University of Kansas and become part of their database for migrating monarchs in North America.   "Nose-jobs" were the order of the day with some very cooperative monarchs.  We enjoyed an end-of-the-day caloric celebration at Moose Scoops in Warren.  Martin and Russ really tied the day together.  It wouldn’t have been even half as fun without you guys!                                                                        

Currently crossing my fingers on the photo upload process.   

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