The Killer Queen Of The Swamp Collage

Monarch butterflies about to feed on nectar from the swamp milkweed. Two ruling “killer queens”! Monarchs deter predators with bright orange wing colours, and also taste pretty foul, thanks to a steroid accumulated in the caterpillar’s body from the milkweed. Drawing the milkweed makes me feel like I’m drawing a miniature orchid, it has a lovely complex flower structure. Lots of pink here, as the swamp milkweed has pink petals, and a sliver of orange on the horizon from the butterfly's wings. It was reported earlier in the year that monarch numbers in Mexico fell for a second year. Also, recently researchers say there might be a relationship between climate change, the monarch and the milkweed. For the invasive species of milkweed, warming temperatures mean it becomes too toxic to eat. The researchers also say it’s better for growers and gardeners to plant native milkweed rather than the invasive species. It’s good to know there’s something people can do!

Collage:Ink on Paper

Original:One-of-a-kind Artwork

Size:11.4 W x 7.9 H x 0.1 D in

Delivery Time:Typically 5-7 business days for domestic shipments, 10-14 business days for international shipments.