These pictures were taken yesterday on the West Side of Binghamton, New York, which hasn't been hit by frost yet.
I thought, "what lovely marigolds", and then suddenly, a little visitor arrived.
I couldn't believe it. Butterflies have a special radar, when it comes to me. If I try to take their picture, they flee.
Not this time. Patiently, the butterfly waited me to snap its picture. Again, and again it waited, seemingly sensing that my back was still making me move a little slowly. It even flew to another flower and waited for me.
My guest photographer's sister identified the butterfly for me - Vanessa Atalanta - the Red Admiral butterfly. I so love that Latin name. So, I had to read up on my friendly companion.
Its host flower is stinging nettle, but they obviously will feed on French marigolds, too. One website described it as "docile"and "friendly".
I wonder if this one was migrating, because if he (or she) sticks around, he or she is going to have a nasty surprise on Wednesday morning, which looks like we will finally get our first frost. My suggestion, if you are still there Vanessa - fly away quickly.
But first, thank you for making my Friday a joy.
An October without frost. That is a first for the over thirty years I've lived in the Binghamton, New York area.
This winter, maybe I should take up the study of butterflies.
Oh, wow!! Those pictures are lovely. Thanks for bringing beauty into my day, today!
ReplyDeleteIt was a thrill, yes. Happy I could share it!
DeleteI saw one here several years ago. There is concern here that late hatching monarchs will not leave Michigan and Ontario in time to make it to Mexico. I saw a few Monarchs here last week.
ReplyDeleteDenise, my husband read a similar article in today's paper - we have the same concern in upstate New York. In fact, there are some monarchs still n Canada. Nature is upside down and not knowing what to do with itself.
DeleteMarigolds are so pretty. Bright and uplifting. Really nice photos of the butterfly too.
ReplyDeleteI love marigolds, especially the dwarf French kind. It was thrilling to be in the right place at the right time.
DeleteWow. Nice.
ReplyDeleteVanessa atalanta is a beautiful name, but I'm sorry to disagree - that isn't this butterfly. This is Vanessa cardui, the Painted Lady. Coincidentally, I took pictures of one earlier this week on my own bed of marigolds and I'll post those in a few days. By any name, it is a lovely butterfly.
ReplyDeleteAlana, wow! What a special experience! Thanks for sharing that and for the stunning photos. I love New York State.
ReplyDeleteI'm happy Vanessa decided to pose for your photo shoot. I don't have as many problems getting the butterflies as I do the woodpeckers. All nature's creatures are good at evading cameras when they want to be.
ReplyDeleteLove the vibrant colors of the marigolds and the butterfly is a perfect addition! Looks like you were at the right place at the right time!
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous butterfly. I'm glad that she stuck around and posed for the camera.
ReplyDeleteThere's just something light and . . . peaceful about butterflies. Absolutely love them!
ReplyDeleteFantastic pictures!
As always, your photos are gorgeous and your knowledge of important things like butterflies, gives me a lift. Take care, Beth
ReplyDeleteHow cool. I hope the butterfly isn't around for the frost.
ReplyDelete