Comments on: Monarch Migration

By: Vicki & Chuck D

Vicki & Chuck D — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 12:35:08 +0000

On a October vacation in Cape May, NJ several years ago, I mosied out in the morning to the bird sanctuary at the tip of land from where we usually watched the glorious Cape May sunset. I could not believe my eyes as I gazed, unexpectedly, upon the marshes and cedar trees covered by hundreds of migrating Monarchs. After they are warmed by the sun at mid-day, they continue their migration. It was breathtaking! In addition to this visual treat, the experts were demonstrating the banding process held in a little rustic picnic shelter just off the parking lot next to the marshes. I held a monarch and banded it! A once in a lifetime experience.

By: Marjorie Van Tassel

Marjorie Van Tassel — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 14:30:40 +0000

Thanks for this interesting article, Kate. I’ve been to Marcy’s for the annual bird club picnic. We had the “tour” along with watching her show us how she tags, diff. between the sexes and release a butterfly. Such an interesting naturalist. That’s the perfect photo to accompany your article, also. When the birds are “low” I’ve often “searched for” and taken photos of dragonflies, moths, butterflies, etc. — all just a part of nature, right? Have thought of getting a sassafras bush/tree to attract the Spicebush Swallowtail–diff. look. We have the caterpillar (in my garden) for the Imperial Moth which is large and lovely and likes maples–hope it survives. Welcome back to PA…

By: Libby Strizzi

Libby Strizzi — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 18:17:01 +0000

Welcome back from your vacation, Kate. It’s good to “hear” your voice again. I was glad to read in your blog the biological mechanics of how monarchs are able to migrate & live for months, having always wondered. I knew they mated, laid eggs & died within a few weeks, on the way north. Now I know they don’t do that, heading south. Mother Nature is marvelous.
Libby Strizzi, New Castle