I was thrilled to see this Monarch Butterfly (Danaus plexippus) in my yard this week. He looks a bit worn but is still a handsome creature.

How can I tell it’s a boy? Male Monarchs have a pheromone patch on their hindwing, a black smudge along the vein nearest their abdomen.

Hopefully, a female will flit on by someday. Maybe even one day I’ll find some eggs…