By Chris Hart

Edwards’ hairstreak by Ali Mokdad

Each year, groups of passionate Lepidopterists, excited naturalists, and curious newcomers (…with one person stuck trying to frantically keep track of all the species being yelled out) take to the fields to try and spot as many butterflies as they can. This information helps to provide insight on the abundance and diversity of local populations, as well creating a much bigger picture, through the census reports published by the North American Butterfly Association (NABA). Over 450 counts, which involve surveying sites within a 15 mile diameter, take place across Canada, the United States and Mexico. This year, the Windsor counts took place on the morning of July 8th. A total of 31 people turned out, spread out across three groups to survey Spring Garden, Brunet Park, and the Ojibway Prairie Provincial Nature Reserve.

For each survey, the sky was cloudy, the humidity was building and the risk of rain loomed overhead. Despite these conditions, the attitudes were positive. When a butterfly (or caterpillar) was spotted, and its identification was known, the name was said aloud for a check to be made beside that species’ name. If unsure of an ID, binoculars or the trained eye of another group member would be called into action. In some cases, butterflies were captured by net for closer inspection.  Dragging a net lightly along the vegetation was also used to capture any individuals possibly missed by all of the eyes in the crowd. All individuals were safely released shortly after capture.

In total, there were over 160 individuals observed, with 34 different species identified. Little wood satyr and Eyed brown were the most commonly observed species, while only one individual was seen for several others, including Spicebush swallowtail and Silver-spotted skipper. Almost the full cycle of Monarchs were recorded, with eggs, larvae and adults observed.

These butterfly counts are a great way to collect data, spend time with likeminded people and enjoy beautiful local natural areas. Windsor count events are sponsored by NABA, the Friends of Ojibway Prairie and the Ojibway Nature Centre. Keep any eye out next summer for the dates and locations of the 2024 counts!