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Metamorphosis of Perspective: Max's Reflection

Max Zimmerman
High school student holding monarch butterfly egg
Max holding his first monarch egg.

My experience with Monarchs Matter was a positive and rewarding one. The process of watching my

caterpillars metamorphose into butterflies gave me a sense of accomplishment.


One of the reasons I liked this program so much was due to its hands-on approach. In my opinion, hands-on programs are the most effective and enjoyable way to learn. I never knew that you could tag a butterfly! Hopefully one day I will find a tagged monarch. I appreciated spending time outdoors connecting with nature and ecosystems and meeting likeminded people. After this experience, I plan to keep raising monarchs every year and spreading the word of their importance.


First session of Monarchs Matter Raise, Tag, and Release Summer Program for high schoolers
The first Raise, Tag, & Release (RTR) Summer Program at the ReWild Dodge Garden (Max, first in the back row).





Monarchs Matter changed my view on monarchs and other pollinators. I always knew that pollinators were important to ecosystems, but I never knew how much humans relied on them. Participating in this program has made me appreciate the monarch butterfly more than I used to. They are not just beautiful but are necessary! Without pollinators, many of our crops and other plant species would suffer greatly. This program has enhanced my awareness of native species around my neighborhood. My family and I have always been conscious of planting native species because of how beneficial they are to pollinator populations. I hope to inspire more neighbors to add native plants to their garden.


Adult and youth volunteers looking at monarch butterfly egg.

Projects such as this one reassure me that I want to have a career that deals with environmental issues and causes. Even though I want a career in marine biology, I have developed an interest in native plant and insect species of Long Island. This program along with others at ReWild Long Island have shown me how all ecosystems are connected and equally important. All that I am learning this summer will definitely increase my appreciation of Long Island's native species and their importance.











 

Stay tuned for more RTR Student Reflections on the Monarch Moments blog!

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