This is my first post, but I have been raising monarch for the past five summers here in northern Michigan. I think Oe is a problem this year, but I'm not sure. This year I raised most of them outside. I have had 2 monarchs emerge with a clear spot (no scales) on the upper wing on one side only. This spot is about the same size as the tags for Monarch Watch. On the hind wing there is a corresponding spot that is much smaller. The first one emerge and fell to the bottom. When I found it it was too late - the wings were beyond help. It was very weak. The second one emerged today. It was able to hang and dry okay, but it was also very weak. I have been examining this one and the abdomen is bloated and there is also a small spot on the abdomen with no scales.
I have been reading the postings and other info on Oe and wonder if this is the problem. This is the first year this has happened and to only two out of about 175 I've released so far. I have also noticed some chrysalis with brown/black dots. This is caused by Oe? Thank you.
