Migrating Woes

I find this time of the year very difficult, especially while out driving. It's not just saying good-bye to all of our end-of-the-year butterflies, either, although releasing the last Monarch certainly does make me than a little misty-eyed.

What I find most upsetting is watching Monarchs heading for Mexico, trying to cross busy roads and highways, only to get sucked back into traffic--and danger. One year as we drove from New Jersey to Illinois in late August, I tearfully counted hundreds of Monarchs we saw struggling to cross over I-90. --LKR

Beaver Creek Reserve

Recently, while my mom and sister were here visiting from NJ, we went to Beaver Creek Reserve in Fall Creek, WI. I hadn't been there since last September when I brought Monarchs in for a class that was tagging for Monarch Watch. Having worked there, I was used to spending (glorious!) hours in the Lab and Butterfly House, so when we only stayed for an hour, I wasn't quite ready to leave!

My hubby wisely would send me off to the butterfly houses at Brookfield Zoo (seasonal) and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum (year round in the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven Exhibit) while he'd take the kids elsewhere, allowlng me more time with my beloved winged creatures. He didn't need to do that, of course, when I worked at the Reserve, but sometimes had to call to remind me that he was making dinner and would like me home on time!

Beaver Creek's butterfly exhibit is strictly native butterflies of the Eau Claire and Chippewa county area. It is typically open July 5th through September 10th, seven days a week. Special tours and educational programs for schools, camps, and other groups go beyond those dates.

While visiting, explore the Nature Center which is full of critters, books, and a really nice gift shop. They also have a donated collection of mounted butterflies and moths that is really interesting to see.

Don't forget to take in the many trails located on both sides of the road, where a tunnel links them together for safety and convenience.

If you'd like to volunteer, there are many opportunities at the Reserve. Volunteers really do make a difference, and are greatly appreciated!!!

The Reserve is located on County Hwy K in Fall Creek, WI. Their phone #: 715-877-2212

Enjoy your time at this magical place, and say "hello!" for me! --LKR


Check out their website at:

http://www.beavercreekreserve.org/butterfly.htm

Hummingbird Clearwing Moth

This little hummingbird clearwing moth has been feasting on our flowers. They just love our phlox and monarda (aka: bee balm, oswego tea, bergamot). I'm always so thrilled to see them!

Their larvae (caterpillars) feed on host plants such as cherry and plum trees, honeysuckle, hawthorns, snowberry, and cranberry bushes. --LKR