This one-day workshop is an opportunity to learn about the Monarch butterfly, its amazing life cycle and importance as an environmental indicator. It is an annual summer Maine resident, arriving in late June with offspring participating in the fall migration to Mexico. Varieties of native milkweed lure the Monarchs here each summer. As the host plant on which Monarchs depend as the single food source for their young, the availability of milkweed is critical to their survival.
Part of the day will be on location at a nearby Belfast site with milkweed, paired with the classroom presentation at Social Capital. Students will have the opportunity to observe and document shared observations through journal entries.
Please wear comfortable shoes and prepare for being outdoors for a portion of the day (sunscreen, hat, etc.).
Please bring to class:
- Journal for drawing
- Drawing materials of choice
- Magnifying lens (some will be available in class)
- Your lunch
- Stool for use during field work, if desired
- $5 for manual - pay to instructor.
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Instructor: Cyrene Slegona
Cyrene Slegona is a life-long Monarch butterfly enthusiast, observing and rearing Monarchs and sharing what she has learned over the years with students of all ages. She has established two Monarch way-stations, participates in ongoing community science efforts, and looks forward to a 3rd visit at the overwintering sites in Mexico.
Image credit: Cyrene Slegona
