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The beginning of the next cycle of life

***Challenge Day 7 - “Beginnings” - Flickr 21 Day Photo Challenge

 

Monarch butterfly/milkweed butterfly/Danaus plexippus.

The adult emerges from its chrysalis after about two weeks of pupation. The emergent adult hangs upside down for several hours while it pumps fluids and air into its wings, which expand, dry, and stiffen. The butterfly then extends and retracts its wings. Once conditions allow, it flies and feeds on many nectar plants.

 

Columbia, South Carolina. USA

 

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monarch_butterfly

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Uploaded on February 16, 2025
Taken on October 9, 2018