Female Tiger Swallowtail
Best viewed large.
The Tiger Swallowtails were out in such numbers today that I saw five trying to nectar on the same blossom at once.
There aren't a lot of thistles in Shenandoah National Park except in areas where the trees and shrubs have been cut at overlooks and other areas to enhance a view. So in the areas where thistle thrive, the butterflies congregate.
I'm still trying to catch good shots of the blue irridescence on the wings, which this one does fairly well. I also like the contrast between the thorns of the thistle and the delicate butterfly wings.
August 29, 2010. South River Overlook, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia.
Female Tiger Swallowtail
Best viewed large.
The Tiger Swallowtails were out in such numbers today that I saw five trying to nectar on the same blossom at once.
There aren't a lot of thistles in Shenandoah National Park except in areas where the trees and shrubs have been cut at overlooks and other areas to enhance a view. So in the areas where thistle thrive, the butterflies congregate.
I'm still trying to catch good shots of the blue irridescence on the wings, which this one does fairly well. I also like the contrast between the thorns of the thistle and the delicate butterfly wings.
August 29, 2010. South River Overlook, Shenandoah National Park, Virginia.