The Monarch Butterfly population has experienced an unexpected resurgance this year, the opposite of what scientists predicted after populations declined precipitously in the past several years. Now is the time to take a Covid-friendly road trip to witness the bunches of butterflies that are hanging around our coastline. Mating season happens around Valentine’s Day and the bugs are gone by the end of February.
Consider venturing to the Pismo Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove, or the Ellwood Mesa Butterfly Grove and/or Coronado Butterfly Preserve, both in Goleta. They’re all reporting lots of butterflies, but call ahead to get up-to-the-moment details about crowds (which have been considerable) and parking options. I’m going mid-week, next week and will report back.
The LA Times did a great story this past week about a “monarch whisperer” who finds butterflies here in Pacific Palisades and Malibu, if a road trip is not on the docket. Here is the story, which includes links for how you can help.
Want to learn more? Attend this webinar with the Xerces Society – a nonprofit out of Portland that does conservation for insects.
Saving Western Monarchs: Creating Habitat in California
February 2410:00 AM – 11:00 AM PT / 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM MT / 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM CT / 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM ETWebinar
