What
does spring migration look like?
This
week's observations are typical for spring migration in Texas in March.
It's noteworthy in the spring to see even one or two monarchs migrating
from Mexico. In contrast, think back to the fall migration observations
that people reported from Texas. Then they counted monarchs per minute
and reported huge roosts of monarchs that were resting for the night.
Consider these questions in your journal:
- How would you describe spring migration in Texas, based on the comments below?
- What does fall migration look like, in contrast?
- What questions do you have about the differences between spring and fall migration?
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Observations from Citizen Scientists in Texas
03/24/09
San Angelo, TX (31 N, -100 W)
I saw 2 Monarchs in my yard. They were large and colorful as they flew
among the spring flowers.It was a joy to see them.
03/23/09 Fort Worth, TX (33 N, -97 W)
The kids at East Forth Worth Montessori have spotted several adult monarchs
flying around our garden today.
03/23/09
Pilot Point TX (33 N, -96 W)
Heavy south winds at 7:00 p.m. I saw first Monarch of the season trying
to land in our ash tree for an overnight roost. He would be blown back
but would skillfully dive low and then up again once behind the tree cover.
03/23/09
Eagle Pass TX (28 N, -100 W)
One slightly faded male headed due east at a goodly clip across my back
yard. One week later than sightings last year.
03/21/09 Clyde TX (32 N, -100 W)
The monarchs began coming through on Saturday! I saw 6 throughout
the day! it was beautiful!
03/21/09 Yoakum County TX (33 N, -103 W)
I saw one monarch while watching today for 3.5 hours in Yoakum
County.
03/20/09
San Antonio TX (30 N, -99 W)
I have seen two monarchs in my yard in the last several days.
03/20/09 Taylor TX 30.5812 -97.5128
We were visiting Friday in Taylor ,TX and saw 5-6 Monarchs in
the afternoon.
03/20/09 Arlington TX (33 N, -97 W)
One seen on 20th flying through suburban property. Two more on
21st. We never seem to get the large numbers, but it's always a treat
to see those that we do.
03/20/09 Glen Rose TX (32 N, -98 W)
One monarch feeding at road side flowers, working south against
the wind.
