The Waiting is Over! Two Monarchs Born!

Ringo is a GIRL! Ringette?

Luciano, one hour old.

We were a little late down to the garden this morning, as Rick had a work assignment. We were not expecting anything, since none of the chrysalises had turned transparent and dark yesterday. We had read that they need 24 hours or so in that state before they eclose, or emerge.  So when we ambled in at 10:45, we gave a routine check around and boom!, there was Luciano sprung and hanging under the hydrangea leaf near his open chrysalis. We quickly checked the others, and boom again! There was Ringo hanging in the phlox. Stephanie said, "I was stunned to see the first one, and SHOCKED to see the second." 

Looking forward to tomorrow, we are hoping for two more. Our wager is on Enrico, hanging under Luciano in the image below, and Matthew, the saint of the sedum. You can bet that we will be there early! We have never personally seen a monarch emerge from its chrysalis. Stay tuned!