Signs of the season

This is also the time of year that the monarch butterflies are getting ready for their trip south.

I took photos of the field of milkweed plants where I found the caterpillar and a newly emerged butterfly.




  This caterpillar is a bit late getting started on his chrysalis, but he will soon be enclosed in a gorgeous turquoise shell and emerge as a stunning flying creature.  Up here we have many adults and students that gently tag the butterflies so that their progress can be followed from season to season.  You can learn morehere.

Be sure to visit the amazing site above and check all the links for some fantastic views of the caterpillar metamorphosis in still and animated images. It is a great science lesson for kids and adults.