Marshfield (OnFocus) – Though Marshfield Monarchs is not able to host public butterfly releases this year, the Gwiazda family is having another busy summer helping raise these endangered creatures.
“We removed one of the top panels on the exhibit so that after the butterflies emerge and dry they have the option of flying out of the exhibit whenever they want. However quite a few stick around for a while,” said Melissa Gwiazda, founder. “We’ve had more time because of COVID to hunt for monarch eggs and explore a bit more so we’ve done quite well as far as numbers go!”
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The family has already released around 1,300 butterflies and has many more caterpillars and eggs at home.
“Our end goal is 2,000, so we’re hoping to hit that, but if we don’t we’ll still be happy as we’ve been working endlessly it seems every day for these little guys. Hard work pays off!” said Melissa. “The end result is ALWAYS worth it. We are definitely enjoying exploring new locations to hunt for eggs and caterpillars. The numbers of eggs we’ve been finding have been phenomenal and just seeing new places is a lot of fun.”
Melissa updates their efforts on the Marshfield Monarchs Facebook page, which also serves as an educational hub for anyone looking to help.
“In comparison to the first two years of being Marshfield Monarchs, we’ve really grown and learned more and continue to learn more,” said Melissa Gwiazda, founder. “We like to pass these things on to the people that follow us as it’s good to know especially if you are raising monarchs as well.”
Anyone can help by learning about monarchs and monarch caterpillars and start by raising even just one.
“These guys are dangerously close to being endangered and need help,” said Gwiazda. “If people do want to raise and release monarchs but have questions or need help please let us know! Message us on Facebook from our page and we’ll do what we can.”
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Author: Breanna Butler
Breanna Butler is an award-winning multimedia producer born and raised in Central Wisconsin. She enjoys exploring and writing about the community. She lives in Marshfield with her husband and furry family.
