I’ve noted several times recently the tattered butterflies that I tend to encounter at this time of the year. However, not all of the ones that I see have suffered wing damage. Some of them appear to have recently emerged and are in perfect condition, like these Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterflies (Papilio glaucus) that I spotted during a recent visit to Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I was saddened to learn thst the damaged wings of butterflies are not recoverable. Butterflies and hummingbirds sadly fall into many garden pest traps.😢
Most butterflies have pretty short lifespans after they emerge from their cocoons, so it is good to see them trying to squeeze as much out of their lives as they can.
And the monarchs are so beautiful.
Simply lovely photographs, Mike. Made my day better.
Thanks, Wally. As you know I love to photograph dragonflies, but butterflies are among my favorite subjects too. 🙂
Wonderful captures of this beauty, Michael. I have never seen one before.