As I have mentioned previously, I have real difficulties in identifying many of the dark swallowtails that I encounter. However, sometimes I get a perfect view of one and the task is vastly simplified.
Last week at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge, for example, I spotted this Spicebush Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio troilus) feeding on a blooming thistle plant. I could tell it was a Spicebush Swallowtail because its row of inner orange spots was interrupted by a swoosh of blue that looks a bit like the tail of a comet. Additionally, the position of the butterfly made for a beautiful composition of the image that I was able to capture.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
I’m always reminded of delicate tile mosaics when I see the scaled wings of a butterfly up close. Really nice photo!
I think this is a wonderful image – and not just because it features my national flower. I think there is a lovely balance of lines and curves in the composition and a variety of visual textures.
Thanks so much, Laura. I had no idea that the thistle was the national flower of Scotland–a definite gap in my education. I appreciate your detailed comments. You always do a better job than I do in explaining why certain photos appeal to me.
Our national animal is the unicorn which will be a real challenge for you to capture on camera!
I have photographed a Unicorn Clubtail dragonfly, but it’s not quite the same as an actual unicorn. 🙂
So delicate and pretty, Mike.
Such a beautiful wing. Lovely shot.