A special shade house guest

[Junebug]

It was nearly dusk when I caught glimse of this butterfly in my shade house. She was sitting motionless on the roots of a Vanda and stayed there long enough for me to fetch my camera and capture some images.

I wish the camera was handy a few days ago for another shade house/butterfly incident. A butterfly was flying so near to my face, neck, and shoulders that I could feel the beat of her wings. She exhibited this activity for a minute or so, landed on my wrist, stayed there briefly, and then fluttered away.

[susiep]

Beautiful! I get my best pictures of insects and other creatures at night (or dusk). It is as if they don't see you shining that bright flashlight on them or see the camera flash.

I have never seen this butterfly before. Do you know what it is called?

[kiki-do]

I just love unexpected "happenings" of beauty such as this! Very pretty!

[LauraN]

I am constantly finding butterflies in my shade house at all times of the day.
This looks like a Gulf Fritillary.

[Junebug]

Chances are slim that this is the same Gulf Fritillary. I caught a glimpse of this one late this afternoon on a different mount located about 15 inches from the last hangout. This little guy was flapping his wings rhythmically and after careful timing I was able to photograph him with his wings spread open.

A windy thunderstorm rolled through shortly after I took these pictures. Two hours later I went out to check on my plants and the butterfly, unscathed by the wind and the rain, was still sitting in the same position.

[susiep]

This is just beautiful! Great pictures.

[Junebug]

Originally Posted by susiep

This is just beautiful! Great pictures.

Thank you. I'm not much of a photographer but it really helps when the subject is a beautiful butterfly.

The butterfly was still sitting in the same position on that orchid mount early this morning. I didn't have the camera in hand. Just went out and checked again and he's gone.

[cb977]

Way cool...and I think you're a fine photographer!
We've seen some very lovely happenings from your place

[Junebug]

Originally Posted by cb977

Way cool...and I think you're a fine photographer!
We've seen some very lovely happenings from your place

Thanks Sue. All by accident, I can assure you.

[cb977]

Originally Posted by Junebug

Thanks Sue. All by accident, I can assure you.

I know the feeling

For every "good" pic I post, there are 10 bad shots...thank goodness for digital!