First one for the season

[windrider]

The first larva I got became an adult this morning.

She doesn't seem to want to stay put and is climbing all over the tank I have her in...I was wondering if this is because she's not happy with the spot?

And also, should I wait a day before tagging? Normally I give them a day before I release them, but this is my first year tagging...

Thanks..

[Mona Miller]

If she is too active, put a dark cloth or dark garbage bag over the container--she needs darkness to calm her. You can tag if you wait several hours for the wings to dry. But, it is better to wait until the next day. This depends on the weather. If there is rain tomorrow, then tag her and let her go so she can get started on her journey.

[windrider]

Thanks, Mona. I created a larger cage of mesh for her use and she's calmed down.

I think my biggest concern now is Earl, who is heading our way and due in the area starting early Friday.

[Mona Miller]

viewtopic.php?f=6&t=1905&p=10049&hilit=Fink#p10049
You can keep her and feed her or let her go and get out-of-town. Animals are very aware of weather. I once released Painted Ladies at a little girl's funeral. They headed for the trees within 15 minutes. The rain began to pour. We humans didn't know it was going to rain, but the butterflies knew.

[windrider]

The thing I'm concerned is - if she's heading south, she'll be heading right into the path of Earl. I'm thinking that I hate to go through all this just to have her torn apart by a Cat IV coming up the east coast.

I built a cage tonight that's about 12" by 18" square by about 48" high. THe top and bottom is wood, but the sides is a fabric netting (something like tull). Right now it's covered with a blanket to simulate dark.

[Mona Miller]

You will need to feed her, if you keep her for more than 2 days. Try to get some gatorade. I found some extreme melon that I will feed the Monarchs that I'm saving for the Monarch Conservation Day on Sat., Sept. 4. I'll be tagging from 11 to 3 PM at Black Hill Regional Park. If anyone is in the area, come by for some nature fun.

[windrider]

I'd love to go...but I'm a bit of a drive away

[windrider]

I released her today....she looked pitiful in the cage and I figured I can only do so much before it''s time to just let Ma Nature take her course.

[Mona Miller]

OHHHH, She so beautiful!