Fallow fields are transforming into pollination plots at Audubon Wetlands! Visitors to the wetlands may notice the front acreage is now full of blooms and fluttering insects thanks to long-thought-about plans coming to fruition. Over the past year, existing weeds and unwanted plants were removed in preparation for replanting. Several species of Milkweed and non-invasive annuals now grace the field, creating a base of flowering plants which have already become a mecca for not only flying insects like butterflies, moths, and bees, but also for hummingbirds, seed-loving birds, and even bats. These host and nectaring plants will hopefully become an established field of flowers—providing a much-needed boost of essential habitat for native pollinators. Thanks to Friends like you, restoring habitat and conserving space one plot at a time, can make a huge difference for declining species such as the Monarch butterfly, pictured here.
This post was written by Lisa Hoffman, park naturalist at John James Audubon State Park. Questions? Contact Lisa at [email protected].