Snow Flakes?

Both yesterday and today, I did double takes. Something white was in the air! Thankfully, what looked like possible large flakes of snow really were Cabbage Whites! [You just never know, around here--we've had heavy wet snow as late as April 28th!!!]

I knew they'd be seen, soon, as Cabbage Whites emerge from their overwintering pupa stage immediately following the heralding of Azure Blues, and shortly after dandelions begin to bloom.

In only a matter of time, the air will be filled with other bright, beautiful butterfly species! --LKR

I See Blue...

Here's a little Spring Azure, one of two that flew in front of me and Mister Poochie while we were walking in the woods. They are the first to emerge from their overwintering chysalises in the springtime.

Farther down the trail, a Mourning Cloak flew in front of us, landing in a sunny location to soak up some rays to help warm itself. These big, beautiful butterflies are one of the few that overwinter in the adult stage (as butterflies) up north.

It is not unusual to observe one of these maroon and yellow lepidopterans flying about on a warm winter day, or feeding off of tree sap in the sun. In colder weather, the act of shivering aids in warming their cold-blooded bodies. --LKR