Laura,

The first picture is a Horace Duskywing. Erynnis horatius has the white spot on the cell. Yours is a female which has a more "mottled" appearance than the male. The second one is definitely a Red Banded Hairstreak or Calycopis cecrops. They really like the Garlic Chives. I have them on mine too.

That's a beautiful male Monarch (Danaus plexippus). I released 8 last week and found more than 20 eggs today. The yard was full of mostly males patrolling and chasing each other away from the Tropical MW. I have a rather large stand of Curassavica since we haven't had many Monarchs this summer. And, so far, the eggs I've found haven't been on that mass of plants, but on other plants throughout the yard. Guess there's been too much protection! One thing I know is that I always use every bit of milkweed I have to feed the larvae that hatch this time of year.

It's exciting to finally see the Monarchs in numbers. I've talked to other people in our area that are also finding eggs. Hope we get a lot to raise and they make it to Mexico. We may be their best hope for nectar along the way.

Sandy

I found eggs yesterday and more today so I'm hopeful. :-) I've really been enjoying watching them patrol the yard. So fun!

~Laura

Yes! It's our turn to raise the Monarchs. More eggs here today, too.

Sandy

Really nice pictures, Laura, especially the Hairstreak!

Bob

Thanks for sharing, Laura - they're beautiful!
Sherry

Gorgeous photos, Laura! I am seeing Monarchs here now, too. I found 1 egg! Just one, can you imagine? I hope to get more. I am still raising Tobacco Sphinx so I may have my hands full.

What kind of a cage is that you're using?

Susan

Susan, it's one my husband built for me. It was our first attempt at it and I'm asking for another one, but we'll modify the design.

~laura