Preparing for migration
In this area we first see them (3rd generation) in July. They lay eggs in the milkweed and the 4th generation emerges around late August. Last year there was a terrible infestation of oleander aphids in the milkweed, which did a lot of damage not only to the plants, but also to the monarch caterpillars. I feared there would be none this year, and that it might take years for the local population to recover. Then a lone female showed up in July. The milkweed is healthy this year and her offspring are now flying and feeding, getting ready for their part in the epic journey.
Preparing for migration
In this area we first see them (3rd generation) in July. They lay eggs in the milkweed and the 4th generation emerges around late August. Last year there was a terrible infestation of oleander aphids in the milkweed, which did a lot of damage not only to the plants, but also to the monarch caterpillars. I feared there would be none this year, and that it might take years for the local population to recover. Then a lone female showed up in July. The milkweed is healthy this year and her offspring are now flying and feeding, getting ready for their part in the epic journey.