September 11, 2023

I am known as a Ruddy Daggerwing

Named for the dagger-like tails on my wings

Wings open, I'm orange with dark vertical stripes -

Closed, I look like a leaf when winter begins.

Special thanks to today's special guest photographer, Heather Elko.

Location: Elbow Creek, Melbourne

Sources: https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Marpesia-petreus

Photo © 2023 Heather Elko and text © 2023 Dee Fairbanks Simpson