Today we got to witness the second caterpillar turning itself into a chrysalis. It was fascinating to see. I was lucky enough to walk into the room almost at the instance of its transformation, even though I didn’t get to …
The saga continues. Day three of raising our first monarch caterpillars. What a great adventure. So far, so good.
Yesterday, I brought in two monarch butterflies to ensure they make it to their butterfly stage. I found them happily chewing on their favorite snack – milkweed. In fact, it’s the only food they will digest. Guess you could call them finicky eaters, right?
According to the National Wildlife Federation, anyone Can Be Part of the Native Plant Movement
Over 50 years ago, they launched programs that have inspired what has become one of the largest national (and increasingly international) native plant movements. Since 1973, their goal has been to inspire people to plant natives and influence the way they maintain their yards, gardens, and community green spaces to benefit wildlife and people.
Today, an estimated seven million people have participated. By planting natives, they’ve supported local biodiversity that echoes what Indigenous people, conservationists, and many local community leaders have known for generations—that we must honor the interdependent relationship between plants, wildlife, and people…
Suddenly there’s a surge in milkweed purchases. Why? Because nature lovers know that planting milkweed in your garden will help to increase the number of monarch butterflies in your area. The plants you choose for your garden (native plants to your region) make a huge difference in supporting wildlife and the environment.
As many of you know, monarch populations have been sadly decreasing due to housing development and agriculture, thus eliminating milkweed, the one plant that used to be abundant across America, leading to a huge decline of Danaus plexippus (their scientific name). In fact, monarch population numbers have been down by over 90% in recent years! However, there is good news. Numbers have climbed by nearly 50% in 2025 according to the National Wildlife Federation. Still, we have a long way to go.
I couldn’t believe it. It was a FIRST. I’ve been attempting to make friends with the squirrels in my backyard. They’ve been training me as much as I’ve been training them. It takes time, effort and lots of patience. But it paid off handsomely this morning.
One of the three babies (kids of Leslie and Earl) finally put aside her fears. When I opened the door sporting a tasty peanut, I simply hoped that she wouldn’t run away. Will she stay? It’s an on and off thing. It would be 50/50 shot! However, she not only remained but as you’ve seen, approached with little hesitation demonstrating her four-foot shuffle.
