May 21, 2024
By Lisa Loucks-Christenson
Published at 1:39 AM CDT
Rochester, Minnesota (Rochester Sun Times News) – Buggy neighbors may be closer than you think, at least in the commercial, educational, and residential properties I observed around Med-city. The "No Mow May" Rochester City Ordinance expires May 31, 2024.
The presence of tall grass and foliage resulting from Rochester’s “No Mow May” ordinance not only benefits pollinators but also provides a sanctuary for a diverse range of critters. Fireflies, bees, and several spiders seek refuge in a secure location.
Within the dense vegetation, June bugs locate countless gentle landing spots to rest and reorient themselves prior to embarking on the arduous journey towards the nearest yard or street light, where they hope to find a potential mate.
Although I have yet to witness any Luna Moths, Polyphemus, or Cecropia moths this year, their emergence is imminent in the forthcoming weeks.
Are there any other individuals who are interested in extending “No Mow May” until the middle of June? As adults, these stunning silk moths do not possess mouthparts, which results in their inability to eat or drink. Clumsiness characterizes their flight, and I’ve witnessed how they are slow to ascend and descend even in the gentlest air currents. Birds and other small wildlife with acute eyesight easily seize and consume many of them as they dry their wings in the sun upon hatching.
A few years ago, during my hike towards an eagle nest for my documentary on bald eagles, I unexpectedly encountered a female Cecropia moth, visibly full of eggs. Ensconced in the dense canary grass, she concealed herself within the shadows. Her attempt to hide filled me with happiness, considering that she was a vulnerable target for mice, chipmunks, squirrels, birds, and game birds found in this region. I hope she found her mate.
I’m rooted in my opinion. Allow the grass to grow for an additional few weeks. Despite its untamed appearance, the tall grass provides a dense hiding place for small animals like cottontails, young raccoons, squirrels, and other critters that are already exploring their newly expanded environment.
The excess foliage offers them a rapid sanctuary. Is there anyone else who shares my opinion? Please send me a note indicating your stance on supporting or not supporting this extension.
Lisa Loucks-Christenson is an award-winning creator and holds the position of publisher at the Rochester Sun Times News, an independent source of news.
Lisa’s contributions, in the form of photographs and articles, have garnered significant recognition as they have been showcased in a diverse range of publications, including trade and consumer magazines, scholarly journals, books and exhibits, outdoor television and radio shows. The distribution of her radio shows, pictures and films, comics, and columns is made possible through syndication.
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