Rt 66 Monarchs

09/04/2026

Monarchs and milkweed, swallowtails and fennel galore still.

09/03/2026

Morning glories are invasive to say the least.

Invasive Species Spotlight:
Tall Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea)

Another species that some Alabamians seem to have a nostalgic attachment to, so if that is you .... I hate to break it to you .... Non-Native & Invasive!

Despite the fact that this exotic species has been listed as invasive in temperate areas of the United States for MANY years, seeds are still commonly sold in retail stores.

This species causes significant ecological damage, including:

❌Suppresses Native Vegetation – Forms dense mats that outcompete native plant species for sunlight, water, and nutrients.
❌Reduces Biodiversity – Displaces native flora, leading to a decline in plant diversity and negatively impacting herbivorous insects and other wildlife.
❌Alters Soil Composition – Can change soil nutrient levels, potentially affecting soil microbiota and ecosystem health.
❌Hinders Succession and Regeneration – Prevents natural forest regeneration by shading out seedlings of native trees and shrubs.
❌Interferes with Agriculture – Competes with crops for resources and can smother cultivated plants, leading to yield losses.
❌Disrupts Pollination Networks – Can alter pollinator behavior by monopolizing pollination services, reducing reproductive success for native plants.
❌Creates Fire Hazards – In dry environments, dried vines increase fire risk by adding to fuel loads.
❌Erodes Habitat Stability – Alters the structure of native plant communities, affecting the stability of ecosystems and dependent species.

09/02/2026

Monarch nectaring on Asclepius Tuberosa Okies for Monarchs

09/02/2026

Snowberry clearwing on native obedient plant.

09/02/2026

I made the mistake of Shasta daisies. I do have some white coneflowers and who knew it was the #1 plant for pollinators in the study she mentions. The straight species of purple cone was #2. I’ve heard the three main colors of flowers pollinators are attracted to are white, purple, and yellow.

09/01/2026

If these caterpillars make it to Butterfly stage, they will join the migration to Mexico in a few weeks. I have about 20+ monarch larvae that I can see easily when walking through the yard. Also have lots of black swallowtails and I have a Spicebush cat on the front door!

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

Save the Date! 🦋 The 11th Monarchs on the Mountain is upon us! Join us on Saturday, September 19th at Chandler Park! Hear from our special guest speaker, Dr. Priscilla Crawford, author of A Naturalist’s Guide to Oklahoma, and visit with our community partners and plant vendors.

Bring the family and enjoy a day in the park while learning more about the incredible monarch migration.