This is a small galley displaying some of the new larvae I received recently from Monarch Watch (scroll down to see the other images):
http://dan-matyola.squarespace.com/danmatyolas-pesos/2020/8/2/monarch-watch-larvar K-5 IIs, smc FA 100 mm Macro F 2.8 As always, comments and criticisms are invited. The first image shows one of the four cups in the shipment from Monarch Watch, each with 4-6 first instar Monarch larvae. The material in the bottom of the cup keeps them alive during shipment, and most were partially buried in that temporary nourishment when I opened the box. The second and third images are designed to show the size of the larvae, compared in an American penny. My other source for larvae ships eggs and first and second instar larvae on milkweed leaves, and often the only way I can tell they are present is by the holes in the leaves. They do grow rapidly, however, and as they get to the fourth and fifth instars, it is difficult getting them sufficient milkweed, either potted or cut from plants growing in my yard. Over the last 10 days, I have released more than 20 adults. Some are reluctant to leave the rearing cage, while others immediately soar high into the sky. If possible, I try to release them onto a milkweed plant or butterfly bush. For those who might want to read more about the Monarch life cycle, I recommend Monarch Watch: https://www.monarchwatch.org/ or "The Milkweed Lady," Rose Frankin: http://www.monarchs-and-milkweed.com/index.htm Dan Matyola *https://tinyurl.com/DJM-Pentax-Gallery <https://tinyurl.com/DJM-Pentax-Gallery>* -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List [email protected] http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
