Cryptic underwings of a Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) butterfly
This is looking under the closed wings of a new Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) butterfly that's "puddling" - taking moisture - from damp soil in the garden this morning. The cryptic underwings are remarkable, like the marbled endpapers of fine old books. The butterflies are almost invisible with wings closed unless you happen to see one land. See my [Next] photo for the upper wings. (San Marcos Pass, 16 April 2016)
Cryptic underwings of a Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) butterfly
This is looking under the closed wings of a new Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) butterfly that's "puddling" - taking moisture - from damp soil in the garden this morning. The cryptic underwings are remarkable, like the marbled endpapers of fine old books. The butterflies are almost invisible with wings closed unless you happen to see one land. See my [Next] photo for the upper wings. (San Marcos Pass, 16 April 2016)