From stitched butterflies yesterday to real ones today….
The butterflies have been somewhat lacking in the garden this year so far. The white cabbages are as abundant as ever, and I did see one skipper flitting about a couple weeks ago, but not much else.
Then last week, I was out checking on the garden as I do each day, and this little guy took a moment to rest on me.
It’s a Red Admiral butterfly, and a very ragged one at that. You may or may not know, but once a caterpillar becomes a butterfly, he/she usually only has a few weeks left to live. Their whole purpose is to fly, drink nectar, mate (and if they are females), lay eggs… then die.
This one is probably very close to the end of its life – given how rough it’s wings look. They literally fly themselves to death.
It’s a little unusual to see Red Admirals this late into summer (at least here). I usually see them more through May and June. In fact, I think this is the first one I’ve seen in July.
Hopefully the other butterflies will fill the garden soon!
Wandering Cat Studio 
Hi Valerie, there has been a definite lack of butterflies this summer. I have only seen one monarch and a couple swallowtails. Lots of cabbage ones here too.
LikeLike
Poor butterfly.
I have only seen cabbage moths? Butterflies? so far.
LikeLike
Even ragged it is very pretty!
LikeLike
So far, I’ve seen one Monarch on my butterfly weed, but none on my milkweed.
LikeLike
After reading your post, I realized that I have not seen the first butterfly this summer. I would expect your garden to attract many butterflies.
LikeLike
Oh, my….poor thing. I haven’t seen many butterflies either. Lots of dragonflies this year and big bumble bees. I haven’t seen my Luna Moths this year either.
LikeLike
I am not see many butterflies here either. One Monarch and that is it…very sad:(
LikeLike
I wonder why they are so scarce? Climate change?
LikeLike
Beautiful! I just saw one at my Mom’s–I tried to chase it for a pic but I was too slow! lol
LikeLike