From October through February we have Monarch Butterflies wintering in the
Pismo Monarch Butterfly Grove. The Western Monarchs leave their summer spots in the Northwest part of the US and travel South when the days start getting shorter. They arrive here in October and this generation spends about five months just hanging around. As the days get longer and warmer they mate and start to fly North.
I have become a volunteer and spent time in the trailer that sells postcards and books about the Monarchs. It's a joy being down in the Grove and I meet so many people from all over the US and beyond.
This female is laying eggs on the Milkweed plant that we have on display. Usually the Monarchs start heading North to the Central Valley or Sierra Foothills before they would find Milkweed to start laying eggs. This is the first of the 4 or 5 generations that make the trip North starting around the end of February to Washington, Oregon and sometimes into Southwestern Canada.
These insects offer a wonderful winter delight for us to observe and enjoy. The Grove is a happy and joyful place, with lots of smiles and laughter. I love to be there!
Thank you Monarchs!
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