FOLEY – Children gathered around milkweed plants taller than many of them, leaning in to spot tiny striped caterpillars just beginning their journey to become Monarch butterflies.
The Foley Public Library and Riviera Utilities hosted Butterfly Story Time on Wednesday, July 16, at the Riviera Pollinator Garden near Foley City Hall. The event gave families the chance to learn about the Monarch’s incredible migration from Canada to Mexico while getting an up-close look at caterpillars that will soon continue that journey.
Children listened to stories about Monarch butterflies, learned about their migration, and discovered how pollinator gardens like the Riviera site help support butterflies and other pollinators along their path.
Josh Roberts, vegetation management specialist, shared with the group how native plants in the garden support bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential for the environment and the food supply.
“About 35% of the world’s food depends on pollinators,” Roberts said. “Butterflies, honeybees, birds, and even bats help carry pollen to the plants that grow many of our crops.”
Roberts explained that during their fall migration, Monarch butterflies pass through Foley as they return to Mexico, traveling up to 100 miles a day and laying hundreds of eggs along the way.
More than 100 children and family members attended Wednesday’s event, which included crafts, games, and refreshments.
The Foley Public Library and Riviera Utilities will host a second Butterfly Story Time on Saturday, July 19, at 10 a.m. at the library.
Since its creation in 2023, the Riviera Pollinator Garden has grown into a partnership committed to environmental stewardship and regional research. The garden is now a certified Monarch Waystation and part of the Alabama Native Milkweed Project, supporting efforts to increase native milkweed populations and track Monarch butterflies along the Gulf Coast.