Swallowtail butterfly nectaring on a native ceanothus in flower. Photo credit: Mary Jane West-Delgado

Saturday, March 21: Butterflies of the Valley and How to Bring Them Into Your Garden

MJ-in-yellow-2_15_webFree Lecture with Mary Jane West-Delgado & Michael Delgado

(suggested for ages 10 and up)

Saturday, March 21, 10:30 a.m. to noon
Solvang Library, 1745 Mission Drive

Join Mary Jane West-Delgado for a high-definition presentation of short videos and photos about the incredible butterflies that are found in the Santa Ynez Valley. She will also describe good habitats in which to find butterflies — whether out on the trail or amid the foliage in your own backyard. Following her talk, Mary Jane will be joined by her husband Michael and they will show examples of host plants for butterfly larvae as well as plants that are especially attractive to butterflies for nectar.

Mary Jane and Michael have been raising butterflies in their backyard for over 15 years. Strictly as an observer in the garden — and with camera in hand — Mary Jane has captured an intimate view of several species of butterflies. Many local enthusiasts of garden insects has come to watch majestic monarchs emerge from their chrysalises on a sunny day at their home. The Delgados have been active as docents and/or leaders in local organizations such as the Santa Ynez Valley Natural History Society, UC Sedgwick Reserve, Santa Ynez Valley Botanic Garden, and NatureTrack.

Image: Mary Jane West-Delgado