Nature Photographers Network
This is the preserved archive of the original Nature Photographers Network. The community continues at naturephotographers.network.
Forums · MWNP

Hangin out on Memorial Day

Discussion

5 replies
Posted by Jack Graham on May 28, 2007 at 4:46 PM
Hangin out on Memorial Day
Any butterfly experts out there? I didn't know they had these little hairs on their bellies. I think this guy's newly out of the cocoon.

I admire great butterfly shots---they ain't easy. To me this one's just borderline keep able---but I was interested if anyone could answer my question on the belly hairs.

Shot in Raw with not a lot or work done on the image in PS


Again.. Nikon D200/ Nikon 200mm Macro/ Tripod 15th at F16
Posted by Josh Anderson on May 28, 2007 at 9:00 PM
Jack, this looks like the Zebra Swallowtail. This is just a guess.

Nice shot BTW. Looks like a keeper to me.
Posted by Chuck Beatty on May 28, 2007 at 10:03 PM
Nice capture, Jack. It's a Tiger Swallowtail (probably a male) and the belly hairs (and hairs along the inside wing margins) are found on all the butterflies and moths I've ever seen. (I used to collect as a kid.) I agree that this one's not too far out of the cocoon, based on the pristine condition of the wings (they tend to get ragged edges after a while). They only live a month or so, so enjoy 'em while you can.
Posted by Richard Wong on May 30, 2007 at 3:11 PM
wow. I haven't seen a butterfly that big before.
Posted by Robert Helms on May 30, 2007 at 8:03 PM
Jack, I can't help with the belly hairs, but I really like the image. Easily considered keepable to me.
Posted by Toni Lankerd on May 31, 2007 at 9:20 AM
Gotta love these Swallowtails! You're right Jack...they don't make it easy on you. I remember chasing one all over the yard a few years ago just to get a couple shots.