PACIFIC GROVE MONARCH BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

Each October, thousands of Monarch butterflies as far north as Canada migrate to a warmer climate for the winter. It's the longest migration in the insect world, often covering 2500 miles or more. In an effort to establish and protect part of this route, Pacific Grove has a dedicated Butterfly Sanctuary where these beautiful insects can winter over undisturbed. High among the Eucalyptus trees, they gather strength in this protected grove for their journeys to lay their eggs in the Rockies, the Sierras, the Central Valley and other places that thrive with the milkweed plant. The butterfly sanctuary is a place of tranquility for insects and humans alike.

Highlights:
Paul says: "We seem to have the best luck on sunny mid-mornings. It's interesting to play visual hide and seek with those butterflies whose wings are closed. The tops of the wings are decorated with delicate black and orange scales, but the bottoms are transparent. They blend in with the leaves and can easily be mistaken for part of the trees. On a sunny day, though, their wings are stretched out in full splendor. Stop at the information board when you first come in, and read with your children. It will give them a short but thorough explanation of the migration. Or call in advance and see when a docent will be there. These are volunteers whose passion for the preserve is evident."
Julie adds: "The butterflies are mostly way up in the tops of the trees. If you have a zoom lens or binoculars, bring them for a better view. When it's sunny, one of the best views is to the left as you walk into the grove. Put your smaller children on your shoulders to peek over into the neighboring yard to see trees absolutely brimming with butterflies. The pink flowering trees at the bottom of the grove are also a beautiful place for pictures, and they seem to be a favorite resting spot for the biggest of the monarchs. If you're really quiet and sit very still on one of the many benches, don't be surprised to find a little friend on your shoulder or arm, especially if you are wearing bright colored clothing. Jenna (9) says it tickles."

This is a nice, peaceful excursion. Have your children bring their sketchbooks, relax on a bench and enjoy the beauty and grace of these magnificent creatures. 30-45 minutes is about right for a visit with young children. If you plan to make a whole day out of it, Pt. Pinos Lighthouse and Asilomar Beach are right around the corner.

Out & About Helpful Hints: The best time to visit is right around Thanksgiving. The trees are pretty full, but the sun is still out. If your children are old enough to understand about reproduction, just before Valentine's Day the mating season is in full swing, and there is a lot of activity in the grove. Just be aware that you might be explaining why "some butterflies have four wings" (Elisha, 6).

Kid Safety Considerations: Instruct your children to watch, but not touch the butterflies. Some curious insects may land on your child; that's a wonder for most of them. But chasing them, catching them, climbing trees after them, or otherwise disturbing them is a fineable offense.

(c) 2000 Paul and Julie Gentry. Note: this article first appeared in Monterey County Family Magazine.