Posted By auntie on August 19, 2017

1.2 miles; Preston, CT

This was a joint Avalonia Land Conservancy/North Stonington Garden Club hike led by Bruce Fellman to see all the butterflies on this lovely preserve. Hardly a “hike,” but still a wonderful walk.

Tiny Monarch Caterpillar

The first thing we were all looking for was Monarch Butterfly caterpillars, and the ones we found were teeny, tiny. But it was still a happy thing to find any at all.

Hike Leader

Our hike leader, as I mentioned, was the estimable Bruce Fellman, who has his own amazing nature blog. His photography is stunning, and his insights are always thought-provoking.

Bruce Made a Friend

Naturally, I forget what his friend’s name (and genus and species) is. But the long appendage at his (her?) backside is an ovipositor, not a stinger. Uh, so that would make him a her, I guess!

Joe Pye Weed

One of the blooms that signals the end of summer to me is Joe Pye Weed. It’s also a butterfly magnet. So this was a good/sad sight.

Track (click for details)

You can find out more about the Preston Preserve at the Avalonia website. And as always, click the above image for details and to download the gps track.

Categories: Connecticut, Walks and Hikes
Tags: 2 miles or less, CT, Preston CT