Share this comment
As always-- very inspiring and such a better way of learning about butterflies than reading a field guide. I have seen eastern pine and henry's elfins here (Hancock, ME) but didn't think they were as cooperative as your bog elfin, in fact, the only photo I could get of the henrys was almost head on. I don't like netting so don't end up g…
As always-- very inspiring and such a better way of learning about butterflies than reading a field guide. I have seen eastern pine and henry's elfins here (Hancock, ME) but didn't think they were as cooperative as your bog elfin, in fact, the only photo I could get of the henrys was almost head on. I don't like netting so don't end up getting the best pictures in a lot of cases but it is a fun challenge. After not seeing black swallowtails in my yard before, I have seen several this year including caterpillars on queen annes lace. Overall though seems like way fewer butterfly individuals coming thru our yard than in the past. I'm worried.
Thanks, Leda Beth! Yep, we're concerned, of course, about butterflies (many insects) in general. Drought is a big factor, along with the usual forces of the Anthropocene. You might not have been seeing them as usual in part owing to all the crappy weather and rain we've been having in New England. Henry's in particular are wonderful. I'll bet you'll meet up with and sit with one some May soon! Keep me posted!