Month: August 2025

This week we had the opportunity to watch the mating of Swallowtail Butterflies.  Male swallowtails often engage in aerial displays, flying in a specific pattern to attract females. They also release pheromones, chemical signals that play a crucial role in attracting mates. Once the male lands, the butterflies couple at the abdomen, with the male on the bottom and the female on top. The male transfers a spermatophore, which contains sperm and nutrients, to the female. After mating, male swallowtail butterflies typically live for only a few days longer. Their primary focus after mating is to reproduce, and once they’ve fulfilled this role, their lifespan is shortened. In contrast, female swallowtails live longer to lay eggs and contribute to the next generation. The adult stage of a swallowtail, including both males and females, generally lasts from a few weeks up to a month or more.

What is the best caption for this series?

Too much of a good thing?

Occupational hazard?

Trying on a new hat.

It all started innocently enough….

Getting the last drop.

Do I need a hat? 

Who said females are less glamorous than males?

Maybe a bit off more than I can chew?

Doe and Fawn cross the Sheboygan River. Momma looks hungry with her tongue sticking out in anticipation of something good to eat on the other side. Another doe awoken while sleeping in the grass and springing to action for her escape. The youngster following her mother.