The Daily Bucket is a place where we post and exchange our observations about what is happening in the natural world in our neighborhood. Each note about the bugs, buds, and birds around us is a record that we can refer to in the future as we try to understand the patterns of nature that are quietly unwinding around us. |
Tuesday morning, Melanie and I went out for a sunrise walk before it got to be hot and windy. Along the path is a small patch of common milkweed. We took our camera and got a couple of pictures. First is a close up. Then the group shot. Smile everyone.
Milkweed are found all over the United States and most of Canada. The link here shows nearly 80 species. It is a site interesting for the amount of information and the diversity of the plant. Milkweeds are especially important to the Monarch butterfly as it makes its way north and back south to Mexico. This link is to Monarch Watch and provides a wealth of information about the migration of these amazing butterflies.
Did you know that the milkweed can also be a source of food for people. This web site offers numerous tips on uses of the plant for your pleasure. I have not personally had the pleasure of dining on any milkweed dishes. I would be happy to hear if any of you have done so. What did you prepare? What was it like? Are you thinking of trying a dish?
What else is going on in your backyard? Let us know how things are. New things? Old? Critter stories? It is always good to hear from you. Toss it in the bucket and give it a good hearty stir.