ROCHESTER, Minn. — July 28, 2026 at 5:50 AM CDT — By Lisa Loucks-Christenson
The third installment in the dragon series, 61 Dragons: Winter Stay, is now taking shape as the animals remain in extended care.
The decision comes after a recent weekend in which the dragons appeared to signal that they will not be ready to make wings by fall and may remain in care for another year. The update marks a shift from the earlier expectation of a shorter indoor stay.
The extended care also follows a security concern on the property. In late spring, a trespasser cut the fence, entered the grounds illegally and drained Pool Pond, prompting continued caution about when the dragons should return outdoors. The adults are expected to go back to the pond when they are ready, but for now they remain inside until they can fly.
The series is being documented in three books. The first, Lionel: King of the Pool Pond, The Second, 61 Dragons (dragonfly nymphs), focuses on the earlier part of the dragon story documenting Lionel's offspring and others. The third, 61 Dragons: Winter Stay, continues the account of the dragonfly nymphs and their upcoming winter stay.
Angels She Wrote: Stories from the Vine of the Grapevine Beetle Keeper, will include excerpts.
Lisa Loucks-Christenson has photographed since age 8, was nationally published by 15 and began professional journalism work in the early 1980s. She is the founder and publisher of Rochester Sun Times News, an independent news source based in Rochester, Minnesota.