Monarch Butterflies head south from the far western states and Canada for a winter vacation along the California Coast south of San Francisco. There they gather tightly together on a few trees for warmth, and they spend the winter in the gentle breezes coming off the Pacific Ocean. During our visit to Santa Cruz, there were less than 1,000 Monarchs present, which is far below the historic numbers, but still a thrill to see. In this photograph they are gathered on a Monterey Cypress–a signature tree of that enchanting coastal region.

LIMITED EDITION: This photographic print is part of a limited edition produced by photographer Lee Rentz. The edition consists of 250 prints, which includes all sizes and methods of printing.