The diverse mix of vegetation in those raised beds I described in the last post provide great habitat for bugs and butterflies. I saw a surprising number while I was there.
Can you guess what this one is? No, it's not a Monarch caterpillar.
It was a little harder to spot at first, and could be easily mistaken for a Monarch caterpillar, but it's a Black Swallowtail caterpillar.
One of the Clear-wing Moths that I think of as 'Hummingbird' moths.
A Cabbage White, hard to find sitting still. It flutters around without ever landing.
A poor picture of a rather tattered red-spotted Purple.
Probably my best picture. All of these taken at Parkwood over my time there were taken with my iphone 7.
The highlight of the summer was the number of Monarch butterflies I saw, all over the property - probably 40 or so altogether.
A few other interesting elements the gardeners have included!
The butterflies are a welcome sight, especially at this time of year.
ReplyDeleteThe Butterflies are always a welcome site to see.
ReplyDeleteUsing your imagination gardening can be very creative.
Be Safe from the Storms and Enjoy the picturesque views.
It's about time.
Has been years since I have last seen a Monarch or Black Swallowtail caterpillar. Good job with your iPhone 7.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely lovely photos of the butterflies and flowers. You are sure a talented photographer and appreciate your sharing them on your blog.
ReplyDeleteI have been reading that the monarch population has rebounded! I'm really impressed by the quality of photos those iPhones take.
ReplyDeleteThe phone has done a great job on those close-ups. That second photo is rather splendid too. Butterflies had a particularly poor year here last year so it's great to see these.
ReplyDeleteWe seem to have birds at our new home, just a few, and no butterflies. Your phone takes wonderful photos, and the Monarch, I always think they are quite regal. And have so enjoyed years ago seeing the chrysalis being woven, developing, and the final arrival of the butterfly.Nature at its finest for me.
ReplyDeleteI used to take so many pictures of the butterflies in my yard. It was hard for a while and then I seemed to be able to get closer without disturbing them.
ReplyDeleteAh, a tough of summer here in mid-winter -- thank you.
ReplyDeleteNice to see butterflies and flowers on these cold wintry days.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful photos.
I guess most anything can be used for a planter. :)
How wonderful to look for different critters. You the man!
ReplyDeleteWe had the Black Swallowtails caterpillars on the rue in our backyard. It was wonderful to watch the transition.
ReplyDelete