It wasn't on the schedule, but after the Pipevine Swallowtail last week several wanted a chance to look at butterflies again. We had several special treats. Valerie brought a pair (male and female) of Luna Moths that she captured at her home. (Thank goodness Show and Tell doesn't end when you leave grade school.) She plans to release them after the female lays its eggs, and then rear caterpillars for release it suitable habitats. It was a real treat for me to see Luna moths again, I haven't seen one in several years. Not only did I get the treat of seeing them, but I learned so much about them. Thanks Valerie.
One of the first butterflies we saw when we reached the meadows was the Pipevine Swallowtail. It is a week older and little faded, but still a rare treat. Other great finds of the morning included a Pearl Crescent, Eastern Tailed Blue, and some brand new Monarchs. Carole stopped and discovered this Coral Hairstreak. A really fabulous find and beautiful photo to accompany it. (Photo by Carole Mebus). There is still a little milkweed in bloom. The butterfly bush (as you can see from the photo) is still very much in bloom. Monarda is just beginning to bloom. It is a great time to look for butterflies.