My last critter of 2026 has finally emerged, 16 days since forming his chrysalis. It has been a lot cooler so no doubt that caused the longer metamorphosis than his earlier siblings. all of which popped out in 9-11 days. This puts a lot of pressure on Fred (yes, I name my Monarch babies) to get going south on his long journey to Mexico for overwintering. The other challenge he’s facing is we’re due for a nor’easter dumping a lot of rain along with heavy winds – not very conducive to Monarch migration.
Fred is sitting out on some mums in the sunlight. Hopefully he’ll warm up enough to head out today.
Here’s a parting shot of Fred along with a Monarch that is staying behind with me, some fresh ink I got from Haley Savage that is on my forearm:
Good-by, Fred! Hopefully I’ll see your grand-kids here next year!
