Ten Mile Creek Marianna

2019

Newly renovated building that is now a warehouse for Vesta Mine Supply. Their main office is in 84, Pa.

Lots of islands forming in the creek.

Swamp Milkweed

Milkweed grows here in the fields of southwestern Pennsylvania. It is a plant well known for its relationship to Monarch butterflies. Monarch butterflies depend on Milkweed as a food source for their caterpillars. The plant contains the nourishment needed for a caterpillar to transform into an adult butterfly. What makes the plant so noteworthy to the butterfly is the plant contains cardiac glycosides, a natural organic compounds that are toxic to many species of birds.

Milkweed is also a pollinator magnet of other butterflies and bees. It is a nectar and pollen source for honey bees. They seem to spend more time on milkweed than they do on any other flowers.

At any rate, this plant has an valuable role in fields and meadows. Consider adding it to your garden if you don't have it planted already. Monarch butterflies will come and lay their eggs on them, and you will get to see for yourself just how important this plant is to not just to the Monarch but also to various other insects.