Nature Reflections: Milkweeds and Monarchs

by D.E. Bentley –

According to data gathered by Monarch Watch, 2016-17 saw a 27% decline in the monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) population as compared with the previous year.  Their data examines and compares the number of hectares occupied by the butterflies in their overwintering habitats in Mexico.  This year there were an estimated 109 million butterflies on 2.91 hectares (7.2 acres) compared with 150 million last year on 4.01 hectares (9.9 acres).  My yearly sightings of the monarchs have provided anecdotal support for these declines, since the amount of time I have spent outside has, if anything, increased and my sightings of the butterflies have decreased.

Often called simply the Milkweed butterfly, these creatures, as the name implies, lay their eggs on milkweeds and the larval stages feed on the leaves.  As a child and young adult, I recall frequent sightings of the blue-green chrysalis on milkweed plants, the later instar caterpillars, with their distinct yellow, black and white stripes feeding field side, and the butterflies. I marveled at their beauty and grace …and noticed their absence.

In the hopes of contributing in some small way to an increase in their populations, I routinely leave a community of milkweed adjacent to my garden areas to provide some beneficial habitat.  For the past several years I have not seen any.  This year is different.  I have now seen several of the butterflies moving about, feeding on a variety of pollen plants, from coneflower to crocosmia in preparation for their migratory flight south.

Perhaps this year will be a good year for their numbers, and the 2017-18 data will show more of these majestic butterflies.  I can only imagine the many obstacles that they encounter along the way and bid them all safe travels.

As for me, I will watch for next year’s figures and hope that others consider leaving a small patch of milkweed when they can, contributing in a small way  to providing the next generation(s) of butterfly enthusiasts the same childhood joys that I was able to enjoy – and hope to continue to enjoy.