We Have Birds, but Have You Seen Our Butterflies?
By Tom Brown Checkered White, all photos by Tom Brown When people discuss the Tucson Audubon’s Paton Center for Hummingbirds , in nearly every case, the topic is hummingbirds. Sometimes it might be a nesting Yellow-billed Cuckoo, or any number of other amazing bird species found there. Currently, 256 species of birds have been reported within the boundaries of the Paton Center. Very rarely within the conversations of a select few visitors, are the incredible numbers of butterflies found in the yard discussed. The Richard Grand Memorial Meadow In the meadow that has been dedicated to the memory of Richard Grand, you will find a seasonal wonder. The meadow has been planted with a riot of colors, flowering plants all specifically selected to attract butterflies! Now, I do not even begin to claim a depth of knowledge about Southeast Arizona’s butterflies, and moths, but my time working at the Paton Center has opened my eyes to what can only be described as a butterfly mecca. The Southeast
