I was thrilled to spot this pristine Eastern Tiger Swallowtail butterfly (Papilio glaucus) last week at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Many of the butterflies that I see this late in the season are tattered and damaged, but this one appeared to be in a perfect condition as it hungrily fed on some blooming wildflowers.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Beautiful capture, Mike!
Thanks, Mitzy.
Yes, absolutely pristine – and a marvelous composition with this bright yellow flower.
Thanks so much. The composition worked out even better than anticipated. All I was actually trying to get was a photo with the butterfly’s wings completely open. 🙂
Nice shot!
Thanks, Randy.
pristine indeed!
So beautiful.
Very pretty shot
Thanks. I was happy that the butterfly stayed in place for a moment with its wings spread open.