Black Swallowtail Dancing
The Black Swallowtail (Papilio polyxenes) butterfly photographed here looked to be dancing in the wind while still nectaring – talented insects!
Read MoreCarolina Grasshopper
Wow, look at that camouflage! I believe this is a Carolina Grasshopper (Dissosteira carolina) and I am amazed at how well it works on those rocks… Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreButterfly Weed Party
Below is a photo of an absurd scene that became normal this August on any Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) that I could find – look at all those butterflies! The fiery orange flower is a native milkweed and extremely attractive to a wide variety of species looking for some nectar. We have an Orange Sulphur, Crescents, and the iconic and wonderfully matched Monarchs all feeding here. Just how many Crescents can we fit on one bloom? Take a look at this Monarch as it is showing some signs of wear and tear. This individual likely took a long journey to us and now it will mate, lay eggs,...
Read MoreCabbage White Butterfly
I think this Cabbage White must have just gone through the laundry – that is very white! Enjoy those coneflowers while you can, little friend…autumn is coming for them.
Read MoreCommon Sootywing (Pholisora catullus)
The little Common Sootywing (Pholisora catullus) butterfly can easily go unseen in the dirt, buried in the grass, or sitting on some mulch like this. The typical common name fits, certainly, but the other – Roadside Rambler – is very entertaining, though it seems to be used for Amblyscirtes celia as well. Regardless, here’s some love for a less extravagant lepidoptera friend.
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