They are the essence of beauty - Monarch Butterflies have been seen recently. Tom Eckles photographed this one feeding on a dahlia.

I have seen perhaps a half dozen in the past two weeks. Their numbers are declining dramatically due to pesticide use and loss of habitat. Planting native milkweed would be a great idea - it's Monarch Butterflies host plant.

Thanks to Tom for allowing me to share his photo with  you here.