As you read this, Monarch butterflies are making their way north from their overwintering grounds in Mexico — according to Journey North, they’ve reached the mid-Atlantic states right now. By the time we see any in late summer here in Maine, these butterflies will have traveled almost three thousand miles over the course of 3-4 generations.
When they get here, those Monarchs depend on us to provide quality habitat in our yards, parks, and neighborhoods. Native wildflowers provide sustenance to adult butterflies, who seek out milkweed plants where they can lay their eggs. The amazing part? Caterpillars nourished by milkweed here in Maine will become the generation of butterflies to make the entire journey back to Mexico in the fall!
At the annual Pollinator Parade and Festival, we partner with Birth Roots to celebrate their journey and to highlight the many ways we can all help Monarchs and other pollinators. The event kicks off with a family festival that’s chock full of pollinator-themed games and activities, as well as opportunities to learn from partner organizations like Wild Seed Project, Portland Pollinator Partnership, and the Endangered Species Coalition. Then, we’ll embark upon our own symbolic migration along the parade route and pledge to take action on behalf of pollinators! The event is capped off by treats from Ben & Jerry’s ice cream!
This event is FREE, but we are charging $5/car to park in order to maximize our limited parking. So dust off your wings, reserve your parking pass, and join us on May 19th for the 4th annual Pollinator Parade and Festival at Gilsland Farm!
