Butterflies Pass By On Way To Canada

From Dr. Monte Sanford’s blog (see photo there):

“Currently in the western USA, another spectacular painted lady butterfly (Vanessa cardui) migration is in full swing.  In late March, millions of these butterflies were passing through northern Mexico and southern Arizona on their way northward.  In the last week here in the Reno, Nevada, area we are witnessing massive movements.  For example, along a strectch of highway along the east side of Washoe Lake, I observed 384 individuals within 8 miles and about 20 min. The furthest these butterflies will make it will be into northern Canada.  And this fall, we should see these butterflies move through the area again in decent numbers.”