State is wintering ground for butterflies
IAN STALKER
Iris Vargas Rodriguez is inviting people to be on hand for a dazzling air show of sorts that’s provided by Mother Nature.
Vargas Rodriguez is with Experiencias ID in the interior Mexican state of Michoacan, which includes among its claims to fame of being the wintering grounds for monarch butterflies, which gather in the millions in a mountainous region in the November-through-March period, Monarch butterflies, known for their orange-and-black coloring, work their way to Michoacan and the bordering State of Mexico from Canada and the United States as winter nears. They don’t winter elsewhere.
Michoacan has now created three butterfly sanctuaries for the winged creatures, which have been seeing their numbers dropping dramatically in recent years, with blame for the falling numbers assigned in part to pesticides that are killing the vegetation they like to feed on during their long journeys.
Vargas Rodriguez says climate change is another factor in the decline in numbers that’s alarming many conservationists.
Experiencias ID walking tours that enable participants to see the monarchs up close are now available, taking people to the wintering grounds that were for a long time unknown, thanks to their remote locations.
The environmentally active Vargas Rodriguez discourages people from going on November tours showcasing the butterflies, saying the monarchs tend to be tired in that month after completing their long journeys.
February and March, on the other hand, are ideal for butterfly viewing, with those months being sunnier, something the monarchs appreciate and so spend more time in the air. Vargas Rodriguez is protective of the monarchs to the point of teaching her clients yoga techniques to relax their breathing, all part of limiting noise that may disturb the winged insects. And Vargas Rodriguez adds those who make the trek to see the monarchs will find it rewarding.
“It’s wonderful,” she says. “It’s amazing. It’s so calm and helps you understand life cycles. It’s an incredible spectacle. If you’re into nature, you should visit.”
Those wanting further information can access experienciasid.mex.tl or email [email protected].
