We have planned this trip to Pismo Beach for months and were scared to
death that the weather would be rotten. It was a totally valid fear since it dumped
several inches of rain just 2 days before. But, we must have pleased some gods somewhere
because it is going to be in the 80's today here in Pismo. Totally unusual for this time of year. YIPPEE!
At least it wasn't the freak snowstorm that hasn't happened in 100 years.
Anyway, the men went off happily with the ATVs right after breakfast to
ride on the sand dunes. Meanwhile us women folk stayed behind to
go check out the butterfly grove.
These Monarch butterflies come to Pismo Beach every year from late October through
February. They cluster in the the limbs of a grove of Eucalyptus trees at Pismo State Beach. This colony is one of the largest in the nation, hosting an average of 25,000 butterflies over the last five years. Being early
in the season, it was estimated that there were 10,000 today.
The Monarchs that visit Pismo Beach are a special variety. They have a life span of six months as opposed to that of common Monarchs who live only six weeks. This can be attributed to a unique fat storing system. However, even with an extended life span, those butterflies that leave in March will never return.
It was an amazing sight! Vaquerogirl will be here today and I can't wait to take her over
there. Our campground is right next door.
An absolutely beautiful day!
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2 comments:
lovely. We once frequented there as we lived only a few hours away. Enjoy.
Those are great pics GF! Amy and I loved seeing the flutterbys! Bought milkweed seeds too. When I set them in the spring, I'll bring you some plants!
Had a blast in Pismo!
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