Woo hoo!
I think we have Monarchs! Although, you Texas folks seem to get more Queens than I do so there may be a small possibility, but I think Linda is right and that they are most likely Monarchs. Just curious Betsy, how far away from your milkweed did you find those chrysalises? Monarchs can wander quite some distance and it always amazes me where I find their chrysalises. Then, every now and then, you get the lazy one who decides to stay on the milkweed.
I was just reading more articles about the overwintering population in Mexico and how it was larger this year but we're definitely far from the numbers we used to see. And I want to thank you folks in Texas, and all up and down the migration route (which tends to follow I-35) who are planting milkweed. It's folks like you that are making a difference! I feel a little helpless here in Florida where the Monarchs don't migrate, so it's super important to be an ambassador for the Monarchs if you live along the migration route.
And let's not forget all of our pollinator friends by choosing not to use pesticides unless necessary and then using the right amount for the job and only in the spot where it's needed. Also, plant native and see how many host plants you can cram into your garden! Choose plants that do double duty as host and nectar plants!
Spring is ramping up! Can you feel it!? Okay, I know some of you can't yet, but I swear it's coming soon!
