First Monarch butterfly of the year

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What a nice surprise! I was working in the garden last Tuesday, May 10, and was delighted to see a Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) near some Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca). I suspected she was laying eggs. Sure enough, I later found two tiny white eggs and two more on nearby Swamp Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa).

I’ll never forget the first time I saw and photographed a monarch laying eggs. This image was taken Easter Sunday, April 15, 2006 in our backyard.

monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus)  laying eggs in Kentucky backyard Watching  her place the tiny white eggs from the tip of her abdomen on the small milkweed plant was a memorable experience, and the beginning of my gratifying butterfly journey.

I planted milkweeds because I knew they are the only plants Monarchs will lay eggs on. Even though I’ve seen eggs every year since 2006, the first ones of the season always seem extra special.

I brought three of the new eggs inside, and only four days later I was surprised to discover that tiny caterpillars had emerged. I’m happy to report they are eating, pooping, getting larger and are now the size of very, very tiny ants. It will be fun to watch them grow.

I haven’t managed to photograph the caterpillars yet, but I look forward to sharing them with you in the near future.

 

2 thoughts on “First Monarch butterfly of the year”

  1. amazing photo as usual – we have seen a monarch or two in Virginia Beach and we did have many black swallowtail eggs and even some cats – guess it was too early for them because they have disappeared.

    my news is that I currently have two giant leopard moths in small cages – one has already pupated and the other is getting ready – cat looks like wooly bear with red bands – if not familiar, they are an amazingly beautiful moth ; )

    1. Christine, I just checked the web for images and information about giant leopard moths. The adults are indeed, beautiful. I’m curious about how you found them and what they eat. One source said they feed on Japanese honeysuckle. If so, I say “Bring them on!

      I don’t know much about moths but am interested in learning. No end to the possibilities, is there?

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