photos of urban Monarchs overwintering in Calif.

[Paul Cherubini]

> Isn't the point that, despite all the spraying, growth-inhibiting,
> watering and typical golf-course activities, the butterflies survive
> (or thrive)?
 
Marian Fricano responded:
 
> Yes and No!  These Monarchs may survive as they do not need
> grass or any of the plants on golf courses for their larvae.
> They simply fly in and cluster far above the spraying.  What about
> all the other leps that need grass, etc. for their larvae?  What about
> low flying skippers, etc.??? I do not think that just because the
> Monarchs have found a way to survive the spraying at golf courses
> this is an indication that spraying is OK!
 
Fiery skippers are common on our California golf courses - I see them
nectaring on the dandelions growing in the turf and outside the edges
of the turf. Golf courses also have willow trees and thus one see's
tiger swallowtails and mourning cloaks flitting about. At the edges of
the turf, mallow, wild radish and mustard are common weeds which
supports Painted Ladies, West Coast Ladies and Cabbage Whites.
 
For those of you that think the pesticide applications to golf courses
somehow "sterilizes" the turf of insect life, I invite any of
you to try taking a nap on the turf. In a matter of minutes you will
be itching and squirming from all the turf bugs and flies you will
have to contend with. I learned this first hand while tagging monarchs
at golf courses and now bring a large beach towel or blanket to lay on.
 
Paul Cherubini
 
 
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