Monday, September 8, 2008

Monarch Butterflies on the Move

I caught the Monarchs packed on the ends of the branches on the oak trees here. Time for them to be moving on down to the Mississippi Delta and over to Mexico. It appears they are on schedule for the yearly migration...As I moved closer to snap pictures, I disturbed the calm atmosphere. Sending a few butterflies to a different limb to perch in the warm rays of the sun.The number of winged wonders made the branches seem to have sprouted orange leaves as they stretched and fluttered during their brief stop to rest.

12 comments:

SimplyOutdoors said...

Very cool pictures. Looks like they are definitely on the move. It must be that time of year.

CDGardens said...

SimplyOutdoors- Yes, they are on schedule for their yearly migration statistically speaking. Started seeing an increase is the travlers a couple of weeks ago.

Found a butterfly laying on the ground this morning. Must have gotten tuckered out before it
found a branch . I picked it up and put it on a perch so Sadie wouldn't make a toy out of it.

The Hunter's Wife said...

I'm sure it is beautiful to see. I don't think I've seen anything like it here in the upper midwest.

CDGardens said...

the hunter's wife - Yes, the phenomena is something to behold. Haven't seen a mass acension, but enjoy the small groups that flutter about when disturbed.

Anonymous said...

That's really incredible. I'd like to see that migration sometime. I bet it's fun to watch.

CDGardens said...

Kristine - I look forward to the fall when the time comes for nature to show us her wares. The Monarch are very special time keepers. SHows the seasonal changes.

Windyridge said...

I posted some neat pics of monarch chrysallis's that our neighbors were growing. Check them out:
http://www.othersideofnewyork.com/?p=270

CDGardens said...

windyridge - That would be really neat to grow them. Will they mature in time to go south, or be maintained by your neighbor's through the winter?

Anonymous said...

We used to get a lot of monarchs here in Idaho, but I haven't seen them for a few years.

CDGardens said...

Cory Glauner - I can understand about not seeing the Monarchs like you used to. Our summer time count seemed really low according to what I remember.

Marian Ann Love said...

Your pictures are beautiful of the Monarch Butterflies and thanks for sharing. I saw one on a beautiful big round purple wildflower in the Delta while riding with Rex's Dad on the gator (Mule). We went by so fast did not get to take a picture of it...but I can still see it in my mind. :)

CDGardens said...

Marian Love Phillips - I am glad you like the pictures. The one you described would have been a great addition to your blog too. Bet you'll get another chance to find one like it some day. ;)