Insects

Monarch Butterflies (Danaus plexippus)

Monarchs embark on a marvelous migratory phenomenon. They travel between 1,200 and 2,800 miles or more from the United States and Canada to Central Mexican forests. In the U.S monarchs need places to reproduce and feed. However, herbicide use is decreasing the availability of their primary food source, the milkweed plant (Asclepias).

Eastern Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes)

This butterfly is a common visitor to open fields and farmlands and is frequently seen in urban landscapes. Their favorite nectar plants are milkweed, clover, and thistles. The caterpillars feature white, yellow, and black markings. 

Great Blue Skimmer Dragonfly (Libellula vibrans)

This dragonfly is one of the largest skimmers with a total length of 50 to 63mm. Males are brightly blue colored and they prefer small, forested pools, puddles, and swamps, one of the few dragonflies tolerant of shady wetlands. They will eat almost any soft-bodied flying insect including mosquitoes, flies, and butterflies.

Pearl Crescent Butterfly (Phyciodes tharos)

This butterfly is found in all parts of the United States except the west coast. Its habitat is open areas such as pastures, road edges, vacant lots, and fields. Their favorite nectar plants are dogbane, milkweed, and aster flowers.