Tagging Monarchs

Learn more about Monarchs, their magnificent fall migration, the factors that have contributed to their decline and the ways in which we can help at the Monarch Tagging Workshop on Aug. 29 or Aug. 30 from 10 to 11:30 am at the Marshall Cabin, 8288 Cty Q, in Baileys Harbor at The Ridges Sanctuary.

This hands-on workshop will cover the different stages in the Monarch’s life cycle, as well as how to raise them from egg to adult. After a brief introductory program, participants will capture and tag as many butterflies as possible. Program fees are $10 for Ridges members, $13 for the general public and $5 for children under 18.

While large scale habitat restoration remains a high priority in the Midwest, tagging Monarchs is an important way of monitoring their numbers and tracking any shifts in the origins of those that reach Mexico. Regional tagging also helps in that it demonstrates how Monarchs respond to the physical conditions and quality of the habitats in each area and helps us understand the overall dynamics of the Monarch population. Tagging kits will be available for purchase at the workshop for those who’d like to tag Monarchs in their own backyards.

Artwork created earlier this month during Kirsten Christianson’s Monarch Butterfly Paper Project at Woodwalk Gallery will be on display throughout the tagging workshop. For more information or to register, call 920.839.2802 or visit RidgesSanctuary.org.