Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Mocker Swallowtail




This butterfly has an unique quality about it.  It is called the "Mocker Swallowtail" because the females mimics at least 14 inedible butterflies.  She is truely a master of protective disguise.  This African butterfly is also known as the "Flying Handkerchief", not really sure why except it might look like a handkerchief in flight.  The males look very different from the females and they do not possess the ability to change their appearance.  The photo above is a male.  This beauty was photographed on my adventure to the Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory & Garden in Deerfield, Mass.

4 comments:

  1. That's a freaking cool butterfly!

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  2. Great capture Cindi. I love the way the butterfly pops against the background.

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  3. Wow, beautiful contrast between the stunning butterfly and the foliage behind it! Great shot!

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