With members of BCAS, the North American Butterfly Association and the refuge staff participating, the third annual butterfly count at the Wallkill River NWR on July 13 was very successful.

Three separate teams covered the 4700+ acres on the refuge with a total of 32 species and 1,597 individuals recorded. Although the species total and overall number of butterflies recorded was a bit disappointing compared to last year, there were still a couple of good highlights such as both Variegated and Aphrodite Fritillaries and new high counts for several species including Clouded and Orange Sulphur, Pearl Crescent and Common Wood Nymph. We are grateful to all who participated and invite you to join us for next years' count.