-WEDNESDAY WINDOWS-

 'A Flight of Fantasy' 2014 Earth Day windows, Anthropologie Rockefeller Center

A weekend away is spent in Seattle and Vancouver, admiring the tulips and cherry blossoms in full bloom this time of year. Following the migration path of the monarch butterflies, my overnight flight lands in NYC bright and early on Earth Day. Though it's now a day past, I feel it fitting to celebrate the marvels of Mother Earth. This year, Anthropologie's window theme 'A Flight of Fantasy' pays tribute to the plight of the Monarch butterfly.

 Swarms of recycled paper butterflies

Albeit once a year, the monarch butterfly migrates North and East to begin 3 generations of mating. A first generation of butterflies emerges in March/April, a second generation is introduced during May/June and a third generation is born during the July/August timeframe. The first 3 generations each experience a 4-stage lifecycle (2-6 week span), while the fourth generation migrates West and lives for 6-8 months until the cycle begins again. 

 Peak migration period for the Monarch butterfly

Despite being the most recognized butterfly, the Monarch population is shrinking at an alarming rate. Monarch butterflies begin life on milkweed, a plant easily exterminated from herbicide use on genetically modified crops (the crops are herbicide resistant, but not the milkweed that grows between the crops). Pollen from genetically modified corn also causes Monarch mortality. In 2013, a study conducted by Mexico's National Commission of Pretected Areas (CONAP) shows a 44% decrease of butterflies from the previous year, which represents a 76% decrease of overwintering butterflies from 2011-2012 due to forest shrinkage and loss of overwintering habitat in Mexico. Kudos to Anthropologie for highlighting a noteworthy cause! 

 Polka-dot and paisley

Monochrome with a brilliant splash of color

Recycled wood wings