Monarch butterflies
Hi. I'm wondering if other members have noticed a dramatic decline in the number of monarch butterflies?
A friend living in the Akina area has several swan plants which this time last year were being ravenously devoured by caterpillars. This year, however, the meter-tall plants are virtually untouched. I have not noticed any monarchs in my own nearby garden. This afternoon I spoke to an assistant at a local garden centre who mentioned a similar absence of monarchs in her garden in Havelock North.
If other people have observed a similar decline I would be interested in any theories as to a possible cause. I see very few wasps - certainly no more than last year. The surrounding vegetation does not appear to have changed. Certainly we have had an unusual spell of wet weather, but I am still not seeing the butterflies on our relatively few sunny days. As far as I know, I live several kilometers away from any commercial crop spraying (my understanding is that orchardists are using fewer toxic sprays each year, not more).
Any thoughts appreciated.
Riddle me this: Neighbourly edition!
What type of cheese is made backwards?
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Daily riddle: The plot thickens in our neighbourhood!
In the myth of Medusa, I was her hair, a creature of legend, with a deadly stare. What am I?
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Poll: Should employees be able to work from home?
At the post-Cabinet press conference, the National Party asserted they want public sector staff to return to the office. This has opened a conversation about other sectors in New Zealand who have adopted working from home (WFH).
Where possible, do you think employees should be able to work from home? Vote below and share your thoughts in the comments.
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71.9% Yes
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25.1% No
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3% Other - I'll share below
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