June on the Marsh

As warmer temperatures arrive and longer daylight enable us to spend more time
outside, we celebrate the return of Monarch butterflies and sightings of so many others
that are common to our area. Although some butterflies migrate there are many that
complete their life cycle here and overwinter both as adults and as caterpillars in various
forms. Most of us are familiar with Monarch butterflies and their dependance on
milkweed as the only host plant that they will use to lay eggs on and reproduce
successfully, but have you ever wondered about some of the other common butterflies
that flutter through your yard? What plants should you include in your gardens and
landscaping this summer to enable them to feed, reproduce and overwinter?

Growing host plants as well as nectar varieties will help your yard become a
butterfly oasis and who doesn’t enjoy seeing them fly by or pause to land on a flower?
Some of the host plants that butterflies need might already be right in your yard. You
may already have oak trees, willows, cherry or poplar trees.

These are just a few trees
that play a part in the life cycle of many common butterflies. Plant an extra row of dill or
even a patio pot for the swallowtails. Other host plants can include parsley, fennel or
members of the carrot family including Queen Anne’s Lace. What most people don’t
realize is that thistles and stinging nettle are also popular host plants although many
people try to eliminate them from their landscape. Most flowers and flowering shrubs
can be a nectar source so it is best to stagger their blooms to include early spring bloom
time and others late season so that migrating butterflies have plenty to eat on their
journey.

There are many ways that we can help butterflies and other beneficial organisms
survive and thrive right in our own back yard. If you get a chance to visit Collins Marsh,
check out our native garden and butterfly garden to learn more. There are so many
exciting events coming up at Collins Marsh during June. Everyone is invited to our Fun
Fest and Riddle Walk Saturday June 13 th from 11AM – 3PM for a day of fun for all. (rain
date June 14 th )
Inside the Neustadter nature center, individuals will have the opportunity to
interact and learn about a variety of live reptiles and amphibians. New this year is our
Riddle Walk. Follow the trail and answer riddles as you go for a chance to win prizes,
participate as a family or on your own, appropriate for any age. It is a relatively easy
walk near the nature center.
There will be food and refreshments available on the grounds. Climb the tower
for a fantastic view or rent a kayak or canoe to explore the waters. Check out the new
children’s self-serve activity center. This will be available to use year-round for kids and
parents who love to explore and discover.
Our educational series continues Sunday June 21 st with a presentation on
chimney swifts by Nancy Nabeck at 1PM. Join us in the nature center to learn all about

these wonderful little birds, how to identify them and the conservation efforts that help
them.
There is so much to do and experience at Collins Marsh in June, grab the kids,
take a hike, join us during the Fun Fest or deepen your knowledge of nature and the
environment by attending our educational events. These offerings are free to the public
and aimed at providing educational experiences and enrichment opportunities for the
whole family. Enjoy some beneficial time in nature and be sure to bring some friends.