Saturdays in the Sand
Morongo Basin's Histories at the Museum
A broad range of topics of local interest. With a thriving community of professionals from Joshua Tree National Park, local artists, authors and professors.
Our speakers are experts in local history, environmental studies, natural science, Native American culture and the arts.
In Praise of Butterflies, An Appreciation 🦋
In Praise of Butterflies, An Appreciation 🦋
In Praise of Butterflies, An Appreciation
Saturday, April 5, 2025 at 11 am
In Praise of Butterflies, An Appreciation
A Presentation by Retired National Park Service Ranger Joe Zarki and Butterfly Researcher Marilyn Lutz
The Morongo Basin is home to nearly 100 species of butterflies, each playing a vital role in our desert ecosystem. Join Joe Zarki, a retired National Park Service ranger with 38 years of experience, and Marilyn Lutz, a dedicated butterfly researcher, as they share their deep knowledge and passion for these remarkable pollinators.
Together, Joe and Marilyn have spent over 30 years studying and documenting butterflies in Joshua Tree National Park, organizing five local butterfly counts through the North American Butterfly Association. Their presentation, In Praise of Butterflies, An Appreciation, will explore:
🦋 The lives of butterflies found in the Morongo Basin
🌿 The importance of native plants in their survival
🔍 How, when, and where to look for butterflies
🏡 Tips for identifying species and attracting them to your garden
This engaging talk, based on their 2022 book The Butterflies and Skippers of Joshua Tree National Park, is perfect for nature enthusiasts, gardeners, and anyone curious about the delicate beauty of butterflies in the desert.
Make a Day of It!
The Morongo Basin Historical Museum opens at 10:00 AM, so arrive early to explore the exhibits before the presentation. The museum will remain open until 4:00 PM, giving you time to continue your discovery of the Morongo Basin’s rich history after the event.
Don't Miss This Special Event!
