(Mission, TX) Each July, volunteers across the country brave the sweltering summer sun to count butterflies. The data these citizen-conservationists gather provides a valuable, real-time snapshot for scientists, naturalists, and anyone concerned about environmental change, habitat loss, and disappearing or endangered species.

Why Count?

First, the counts are open to everyone, from beginner to expert, and provide community members the opportunity to work for a common cause. During the counts, everyone gains something from the exchange of knowledge and time spent, together, observing these beautiful creatures. Second, these annual counts, in established geographical circles, help scientists capture and document the dynamic nature of butterfly populations. Over long periods of time, patterns may be discovered and inferences drawn that will benefit both humans and wildlife on the ever-changing planet we share.

Anyone desiring to participate in the North American Butterfly Association summer count for Hidalgo County should report to the National Butterfly Center no later than 8:30 AM, Sunday, July 21, for a brief instructional session. After that, teams will be assembled and the count will commence at 9AM. This FREE activity will serve as an introduction to butterfly identification for novices, and provide enthusiasts the chance to do support species conservation, while enjoying the native plant gardens at the NBC. Experts may wish to contact Marianna at 956.583.5400, ahead of July 21, to discuss offsite participation and deployment to another location within the count circle.

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The National Butterfly Center is committed to ‘Growing Connections’ between people, plants, and the winged wonders that pollinate and propagate all that grows around us. We do this through educational and environmental initiatives that cultivate meaningful understanding of the parties and processes that create healthy, sustainable ecosystems. The Center is open to the public, for visitors and members, seven days/week.

To learn more about the National Butterfly Center, and how you can join us, visit www.nationalbutterflycenter.org. Your annual membership or charitable gift impacts the beauty of our community and helps preserve the biologically diverse, natural treasures of deep South Texas.

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