The elders at Maple Crest Senior Living Village have been enamored with monarch butterflies since 2007. 

That’s when administrator Lynn Thompson brought in a few caterpillars for observation and residents and staff alike watched in wonder as they became monarch butterflies and were released to begin their 3,000 mile migration route to Mexico.

Eventually, elder Joanne Niswander assumed the role of “monarch coordinator,” and designed educational posters and other information to post near the developing butterflies.  This year’s “display” is located in the Maple Crest main lobby for residents and visitors to enjoy.

On July 9, the first butterfly of 2018 emerged. It will hopefully, be followed by many others from now through September. In 2017, 33 monarchs were released from Maple Crest and this year has the beginnings of a record! 

Members of the public are welcome to visit the butterfly display during daytime hours.  Maple Crest is located at 700 Maple Crest Court, Bluffton.