A Monarch Getting a Late Start

See you in Mexico little fella!

Mellow Yellow

After our BatFest fiasco I thought it would do us some good to reflect on all the beautiful things nature has to offer. This "Thirsty Butterdude" was one of the most relaxed new buddies I have ever met. I almost took him home with me, but he needed his freedom. Anybody familiar with this type of butterfly? If you're not, I encourage you to MAKE SOMETHING UP! Also what do you think of the "slide show" feature? It allows me to fit more pictures in but is it distracting? If you click on it you can see a still image of each picture.

July 4th Special: A Spider Eating the Hell out of a Butterfly

The way of nature is not always kind, and this picture tells the story. We walked by this butterfly (moth?) and kept wondering if it was alive or dead. On closer inspection I discovered the reason it was moving so erratically. It was dead but was being suspended from a plank of wood by a spider that was simultaneously feeding on it. This spider's strength is commendable. Imagine holding onto this bug while hanging from your feet and eating it at the same time! I will try to identify these bugs and post in the comments. This picture's inherent drama rivals any fireworks display.