A naturally occurring parasite is now threatening these monarch butterflies. It’s a parasite called OE (Ophryocystis elektroscirrha), and it thrives on a plant that, ironically, is mandatory for monarchs’ survival. The plant is milkweed. Pam Murfey, the Panhandle Butterfly House’s …

Monarch butterflies in Northwest Florida! Read more »

Series Art

As is often the case, go directly to the source when you want the whole truth. Regardless of rampant rumors on YouTube and elsewhere, Dr Jeff Young is alive and well and in fact, he, his wife, Dr Petra, their …

Dr. Jeff the Rocky Mountain Vet Read more »

Yesterday afternoon began as any other – a day in the garden, feeding the birds, watching the chipmunks dunk in and out of the chippie cup, stuffing their mouths with seeds and huge peanuts. After planting my newly acquired swamp milkweed in the front garden, I made my way to the she-shed to store the shovel and gloves, then proceeded to the deck. And that’s when my afternoon was turned upside down. I saw a blue jay on its back. Oh no! How can I help? What should I do…