Lindsey Bickford: Tips and tricks for rearing, taking care of monarch butterflies

To The Daily Sun,

In response to Harry Mitchell's letter regarding monarch butterflies, I've been rearing monarchs for a few years but he's right, this year has been different. I believe the Canadian wildfire smoke and the excess rain this summer are to blame. Also, as homeowners continue to hire pest control companies to spray for mosquitoes, I fear it's having an adverse affect on the population.

While I have not seen any monarchs this summer (but many fritillary butterflies), I have found roughly 50 monarch eggs and first instar caterpillars on the tiniest of milkweed — 1 to 3 inches tall. Monarchs prefer to lay their eggs on these as fewer predators are found on young milkweed.

My biggest advice to anyone interested in monarch rearing is to do lots of research first. Only take in a few caterpillars to start and make sure you have an ample supply of milkweed.

If you don't have the time or interest to rear, but still want to help this dwindling species, let the milkweed grow — it's the sole host plant of the monarch! Don't let your landscapers yank the milkweed that may have living caterpillars on them. Inform friends and neighbors on the impact of pest control.

It's an eye-opening and rewarding experience to rear monarchs, but helping these orange beauties with simple acts will ensure the monarch can be enjoyed by all.

Lindsey Bickford

Gilford