Volunteer to Count Butterflies at Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge

Those attending will meet at the refuge office on the morning of Saturday, August 3 at 8:00am.

Photo Provided

(Jefferson Co.) - The Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge annual butterfly count is on August 3. You can volunteer now to help count the forty-six species of butterflies.

Big Oaks National Wildlife Refuge consists of approximately 50,000 acres on the former Jefferson Proving Ground located in Jennings, Ripley, and Jefferson Counties in southeastern Indiana. The refuge has one of the largest contiguous forest blocks in the southeastern part of the state as well as one of the largest grassland complexes in the state, both of which provide wonderful wildlife viewing opportunities to refuge visitors.

The refuge is especially interested in counting Monarch butterflies. Their population has drastically decreased recently. These migratory butterflies require native milkweeds to successfully reproduce. The loss of milkweed across the Midwest is one of the primary reasons for their decline.

Survey teams will be divided up based on the length of time you wish to spend in the field. Some may choose to stay the entire day, while others may choose a half day.

A $3.00 donation to the North American Butterfly Association would be appreciated for those participating in the count.

Bring water, bug spray, sunscreen, snacks or lunch and binoculars. Butterfly field guides are recommended, but not required. Long pants are also recommended. Those attending will meet at the refuge office on the morning of Saturday, August 3 at 8:00am.

For directions to the refuge, please call or visit www.fws.gov/refuge/big_oaks.