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.
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Poll: Is it ok to regift something that you have been given?
🎁 Holiday Gift Chat!
Do you ever regift?
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76.9% Yes! It's better to regift what I don't need
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23.1% No. It's the thought and effort that matters
CHILDREN'S PAGEANT
24 December at 4.00pm at St Columba's Church. A short gathering, involving children and families in telling the Christmas story. Children (and grown-ups) can dress up as angels, shepherds or animals. ALL ARE WELCOME.
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