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Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Graceful Beauty

I found this beauty gracefully hovering over my Sapphire Showers Skyflower when I came home the other day and (for those of you who have been reading my blog for awhile probably know what I am about to say next.  *pause for dramatic effect...*) I did not have my camera on me.  I know, I know, one of these days I'll learn!  I guess I need to listen to my hubby and start wearing my camera like a pair 'a shoes!

There were so many blooms on the plant that I managed to get in the house, drop my purse, grab my camera and get outside while this graceful beauty was still checking out all the flowers.  (I was not huffing and puffing this time!)


*Gulf Fritillary (Agraulis vanillae)
The wings of this butterfly are like stained glass, artfully designed to maximize the beauty and light in a garden. The Gulf Fritillary is similar in size to the Monarch, but can be distinguished by the large grey patches on the underside of the wing. The wings are quite long and can gracefully carry this butterfly way out over the water in the Gulf region. Before full maturation, the chrysalis looks much like a hanging dead leaf yet the larvae are quite unique with a bright orange body decorated with dark spikes. This butterfly is richly colored orange with orderly dark spots in the center and along the edge of the wing. One of the most striking species, you will be glad your garden attracted this butterfly.
Family: Brush-footed Butterfly (Nymphalidae)
Subfamily: Longwing (Heliconiinae)
Average Wingspan: 2 1/2" - 3 3/4"
Habitat: Gardens, open woodlands

* borrowed from the Gardens with Wings website


The wings really did look like stained-glass; so shiny!


Part of the lower portion of the wing was missing.


I have had this plant for several months now and I've seen lots of bumblebees on it but this is the first time that I have seen a butterfly enjoying the flowers!


I think this was its favorite bunch of flowers!


And there ya' have such graceful beauty!  I was thrilled that I was able to see this striking butterfly on one of my plants!

Till next time,

10 comments:

Dottie said...

Both plant & butterfly absolutely gorgeous. Good photography also! BTW, all letters were fine this time.

TexWisGirl said...

beautiful!!!

(i read someone else's blog that said ABC - Always Bring Camera). :)

Debbie Linkous said...

She is a beauty!! Now, strap that camera to your side from now on! :)

Anonymous said...

Gorgeous shots! The wings really do look like stained glass!

Flat Creek Farm said...

One of the most beautiful I've ever seen ~ and you've also researched it so wonderfully! Thanks for sharing your visitor with us :) (I'm famous for never having my camera on me.. need to work on that.. and a fancy bag like yours ;)) -Tammy

Samantha said...

Gorgeous photos!!!

I've missed more amazing sights than I can remember because I left the camera at home.

Nancy said...

Lovely. I'm sorry, but my camera is too dang heavy to wear like a necklace. Just sayin... :)

CountryDew said...

Lovely shots!

Unknown said...

amazing,.. the beauty of this tiny creature!
KAT

beth said...

honestly, i can never get my fill of butterflies !!

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