Last Friday I spotted this Black Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio polyxenes) as it was feeding on a thistle plant at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. I love the shape, color, and texture of these thistle plants. I was a little shocked to see the excellent condition of the butterfly this late in the season.
When I returned home I did a little research and found out that this butterfly has at least two broods each year, with the second one flying at least until the end of August. Sometimes there is a partial third brood. Perhaps the butterfly in the photo recently emerged.
The later broods will lay eggs and winter is spent in a chrysalis stage. In the springtime, the adults will emerge and the cycle will continue. Nature is amazing!
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I think all of the Swallowtails (Papilio) are so attractive. I have fallen in love with the Spicebush Swallowtail (Papilio troilus).
Very beautiful.
Thanks. This image works for me both technically and artistically, though it is a pretty straightforward composition.
Beautiful, Mike!Blue Rock HorsesFrederick County, Virginiabluerockhorses.com
Thanks, Mitzy.