This past weekend brought the largest numbers of Monarchs through Cape May this fall. A cold front caused Monarchs to accumulate all throughout Cape May County, especially along the coast. As Monarchs waited for conditions to change, they feasted on the seaside goldenrod, which is just coming out of full bloom (photo to the left).
Stone Harbor Point had huge roosts of Monarchs in the red cedar groves, especially Saturday night. Several thousand could be observed (photo to the right).
Cape Ave. on Cape May Point also had several large roosts. One in particular stayed put for over two days straight, at it's largest having well over 2,000 Monarchs. Below is a video of Monarchs preparing to roost for the evening.
This phenomenon was short lived and by Monday shifting winds gave Monarchs the chance to leave, we assume southward across the Delaware Bay. The exodus occurred not long after sunrise. Monarchs are usually the first butterflies to rise because of their physiology and sun-seeking behavior.
Monarchs still remain in the area, but this weekend may have been the last big push we see.
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