I suppose that I should call this a royal posting for it features both a viceroy and a queen. Of course, here in the USA we don’t have a monarchy, but that doesn’t keep us from having Viceroy butterflies (Limenitis archippus) and Queen Anne’s Lace (Daucus carota). I spotted this royal pair on Monday at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge where the Viceroy repeated probed the clusters of Queen Anne’s Lace.
You probably have noticed that the coloration of the Viceroy butterfly matches that of the Monarch butterfly. One of the easiest ways to tell them apart is the black line across the hind wings which is present with Viceroys but not with Monarchs.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I like to learn at least one thing each day. I’m good now. Thanks Mike.
A great combo, Mike, and very nicely captured with the muted green background.
Beautiful, Mike!! 💗
So pretty and now I know the difference between a Viceroy and Monarch. Thanks. 🙂
That’s a real beauty.
Stunning shots!