Last fall, say about Novembers end, many of our butterflies went into diapause. This just means they went into hibernation so they could overwinter until Spring. Here in South Texas we had an early, and long winter. Usually we are in the mid 70's all the way up until after Christmas. But this winter started with snow for us December 7.
I must be honest, I like a warm winter. Because that means butterflies all the way through Christmas! But this year we had no such luck. But I was so happy Monday (2/19/18) when I found this chunky butt (Black Swallowtail) on the Parsley. I was doing a happy dance for sure. I was going to have a nice plump caterpillar for my class on Saturday.
I really enjoy teaching others about our butterflies, and kids just love to hold the caterpillars. You'll see ear to ear smiles. And that is what makes it all worth while for me. But during all my excitement over this caterpillar, I got fooled by Mother Nature LOL, no caterpillar for me to show and tell. It had other plans and dreams of becoming a butterfly. So it has perched, and I will have a chrysalis to show instead.
I'm just ready for butterfly season to begin. And its all about to start real soon. I'll definitely keep you posted! So until next time, Peace, Love, and Butterflies✌🏼💝🦋🦋
