The Monarch Butterfly Danaus plexippus, is perhaps one of the most widely known and beloved butterflies. We know that climate change, threats to the fragile overwintering sites, pesticides and loss of essential host plants, Milkweed, is causing concern for the survival of these amazing navigators. Yet Monarch butterflies have survived for millions of years and somehow I must believe they will adapt to our environmental disasters and continue to do so. It is too heartbreaking to imagine … [Read more...] about Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012 ~ Monarchs
Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012 ~ Fritillaries
Todays segment of 'Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012' features the boldly flecked Fritillaries. It seems the only Fritillary that flies about our gardens these days is the Greater Spangled Fritillary Speyeria cybele. Early on, I mistakenly identified these butterflies as Aphrodite Fritillary, but the eminent Lepidopterist Randy Emmitt pointed out that the large beige band near the edge of the outer hindwing indicates that these are in fact Greater Spangled Fritillaries. I do so enjoy these … [Read more...] about Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012 ~ Fritillaries
Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012 ~ Fritillaries
Todays segment of 'Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012' features the boldly flecked Fritillaries. It seems the only Fritillary that flies about our gardens these days is the Greater Spangled Fritillary Speyeria cybele. Early on, I mistakenly identified these butterflies as Aphrodite Fritillary, but the eminent Lepidopterist Randy Emmitt pointed out that the large beige band near the edge of the outer hindwing indicates that these are in fact Greater Spangled Fritillaries. I do so enjoy … [Read more...] about Flower Hill Farm Butterflies of 2012 ~ Fritillaries
Monarch Butterflies Wild About The Gardens
Throughout the summer and fall Monarchs and other butterflies readily flutter to native plants in the garden and seem to prefer them over most all others . . . with exception to our taller than usual butterfly bush. Joe-pye weed, Eupatorium purpureum L. is a favorite plant of mine for its large sculptural quality. Butterflies, moths and bees love the sweets hidden within numerous tiny florets. Liatris is another favored native and great pollinator attractor. Ironweed, Veronia … [Read more...] about Monarch Butterflies Wild About The Gardens
Monarch Butterflies Wild About The Gardens
Throughout the summer and fall Monarchs and other butterflies readily flutter to native plants in the garden and seem to prefer them over most all others . . . with exception to our taller than usual butterfly bush.Joe-pye weed, Eupatorium purpureum L. is a favorite plant of mine for its large sculptural quality. Butterflies, moths and bees love the sweets hidden within numerous tiny florets. Liatris is another favored native and great pollinator attractor. Ironweed, … [Read more...] about Monarch Butterflies Wild About The Gardens
