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Nature Link

With Blake Mann

THE HEAT IS ON!

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Looks like a hot week. Good for butterflies though. Butterflies respond to the warm sun and become more active. By early afternoon we were seeing lots of activity. Broods were done early this year, so it has affected the counts to some degree.

This past weekend saw us participate in two butterfly counts. Saturday was the Ojibway count near Windsor. It was a perfect day with regards to weather. There are many good prairie remnants and natural areas left in that area.

Results of the tally showed that 51 species were found. Our group had 43 species. Wild Indigo Duskywings were in big numbers. We also had a Dreamy Duskywing. These are uncommon in Ontario, but sometimes locally common such as the case at Ojibway. American Coppers and Edwards’ Hairstreaks were common in one area, as shown in the photo. They were enjoying Butterfly Milkweed.

Sunday was the Skunk’s Misery butterfly count near Wardsville. It is always a good count as there are lots of tracts of Crown Land to explore. A wide variety of species are always found on this count. An impressive total of 59 species were found, which is a new high for the count history. Undoubtedly, the best butterfly species was the Harvester. Not many people see this butterfly in Ontario as it is rather uncommon. Our group found the butterfly on Trillium Road. Apparently a second one was seen not far away. Of all the butterflies I have seen in my lifetime, it is only the second Harvester.

The Rondeau butterfly count is coming up this Sunday. It could be interesting as it is a good immigrant year. Pipevine Swallowtails and Little Yellows have been numerous at Point Pelee, so hopefully we get them at Rondeau as well.