Nov : Winter Butterfly-ing
Wow! Our deepest GRATITUDE to the 21 humans, 4 Monarchs and 100's of other butterflies that helped make this nature talk an undeniable success. We truly enjoy preparing these talks and the 2nd Saturday community that has developed around them. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU for your support !!!!
Along with the change in season, we made a change in plans.
While Winter Birding is the scheduled topic, we’ll pivot to enjoy the surprise explosion of Monarchs. After a brief refresher on Monarch migration and the identification of other butterflies that have taken over the Medina River Oaks Garden, we’ll step OUTSIDE (weather permitting) to witness this wonderful pollinator explosion in person.
As we point out the species we see, feel free to tally them on our handy Butterfly ID Scavenger Hunt….or just sit back and take it all in. With butterflies everywhere, we’ll minimize strolling, stay in one place and use available seating. This will keep the group together so we can all see and discuss the same discoveries. https://busy-birding.com/butterflies-gone-wild
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Keep Learning ....
TPWD Links to identify and report Texas Milkweeds and other regional pollinators
https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/wildlife_diversity/texas_nature_trackers/monarch
Journey North: Track Monarch Migrations, Milkweeds and much more !
Monarch Watch - Tagging Program
https://monarchwatch.org/tagging
US-wide tagging data
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1ji_jObNssnoQfN27NXknwIuvDy1g3Cjl--5m1EBHrV4/edit?usp=sharing
Register your very own Monarch Waystation
www.monarchwatch.org/waystations
Another site with updated Monarch Migration info
Intro to Butterfly Watching - lists many butterfly host plants
https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/pwd_bk_w7000_0752.pdf
We could not live without CITIZEN SCIENCE -
iNaturalist.org : online community and mobile app
SEEK, the kid-friendly version of iNat that works offline for kids and kids-at-heart
Insider Tips -
# 1 : Walk the River Oaks Court's short loop trail to the river. Relax at the wooden tables and chairs or just a few feet further walk down on the river's edge. Absorb the nature's sights and sounds as you relax in the vintage red chairs.
# 2 : The Native Plant Garden was installed by Medina Gardens & Nursery. Walk over 3 acres of trails designed for butterflies and other pollinators. No one knows the local plants better - or is friendlier - than Ishmael !
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We love hearing from you!
Laura@Busy-Birding.com
830-328-2662
