Worldwide, there are an estimated 20,000 species of butterflies and 165,000 species of moths. On travels here in New England and in Vietnam, teacher/naturalist Linda Graetz has photographed hundreds of them.
Rosy Maple Moth. Photo: Linda Graetz
If you'd like to learn more about these fascinating winged (but not in every part of their life cycle!) beauties who are essential to life on earth, please join the Chocorua Lake Conservancy on Saturday, July 23, from 10AM-12PM for “Walking with Wings” in Chocorua. Educator and insect enthusiast Linda Graetz will share her knowledge about the basics of how to identify butterflies and moths—patience, close observation and describing what you see are the most important skills you’ll need. We'll look for moths and butterflies in a lepidoptera-friendly location. We’ll explore and learn together as we describe, observe, and share our finds with each other. Wear sunscreen, long pants and close-toed shoes. Please bring your own water, tick/mosquito repellant, and a magnifying glass if you have one. The free outdoor program is limited to 20 participants; please register in advance below. Children 8 and up are welcome and must be accompanied by an adult.
Linda is also offering a program via Zoom in advance of the walk: “Butterflies are From Venus, Moths are From Mars,” on Tuesday, July 19, at 7PM, via Zoom; register HERE. If you weren’t able to attend, but would like to watch it before the walk, we will post a link between July 20 and 23 HERE.
Linda Graetz is an educator and photographer who spent a very rewarding thirty years in museum and art education. An avid birder since the late 1970s, upon retirement she turned most of her attention to nature. She trained as a teacher/naturalist at Mass Audubon’s Drumlin Farm and taught there for more than 10 years. It was through her work there that her interest in insects was ignited. Her passion now is to inspire others to see and learn more about these amazing creatures.
Banner image: Small-eyed Sphinx. Photo: Linda Graetz