Did You Notice?

The old butterfly (at top): The old butterfly is faded, tattered and torn. Its wings are nearly colorless. They are as thin and transparent as tissue paper. The edges of the wings have ripped like paper, too, and a section of a wing is even torn. The wings looks stiff and fragile. There are scratches and scrapes where the bright orange colors used to be. If the old butterfly moved it would probably make scratching sounds on the paper. It would feel like a crisp, dry leaf.

The new butterfly (at bottom): The new butterfly looks as soft as velvet. Its colors are brilliant orange, dark black, and fresh white. The edges of the wings look soft and flexible. When the new butterfly moves it's probably silent. It would feel smooth.

• Read the comments from observers this week. Notice how they describe the monarchs they see. Many are very old, up to 8 months old!

Photo Harlen Aschen