The unmistakable Monarch |
Tracy caring for the butterflies |
Where the magic takes place |
When one notices a Monarch butterfly fluttering about in North York, there is a good chance that the butterfly began his delicate life under the watchful and gentle care of residents at Delmanor Northtown. Countless hours of devotion have been given by Tracy, Delmanor Northown team member, as she searches fields for small eggs and milkweed. The milkweed is the only plant where a Monarch butterfly will lay its eggs and also the only plant that a Monarch butterfly will ingest.
Due to the destruction of natural habitats and heavy pesticide use, the milkweed is becoming less available resulting in the catastrophic decrease in Monarch butterfly population.
The reward |
Delmanor Northtown residents and staff created a safe environment for the Monarch eggs to make their transition from caterpillar, to chrysalis and then to butterfly. It is hoped that through education about the many destructive effects of habitat loss and pesticide use, the devoted individuals like Tracy, throughout North America will see a return of our beloved Monarch.
With the assistance and care from residents at Delmanor Northtown, the adult butterflies are then released on the beautiful terrace to start their magnificent journey to Southern California or Mexico.
If you would like to learn more about the Monarch program at Delmanor Northtown, or to arrange a tour of the retirement residence, please contact Laurie Fortin, Marketing & Community Relations Manager at (416) 225-9146 or visit online at delmanor.com