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"Dr. Bob" Setzer | all galleries >> Galleries >> Dr. Bob's Butterfly and Moth Gallery > 1158 b-fly mating with former self
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07/13/2011 Robert Setzer

1158 b-fly mating with former self

Pte. Mouillee, Michigan

While birding today, Judy and I watched a two-toned butterfly for awhile at Pte. Mouillee in Michigan. We thought it quite unusual! Fortunately it "posed" for us. This pic possibly shows a yellow butterfly mating with a mostly identical silver butterfly. I mean it really looks totally identical relative to placements of spots, etc.!
Or is this just a "shed"? How (why?) could/would a butterfly ever shed all that fragile glory - especially intact! - to just to remain the same? And how is it possible that a butterfly would ever shed the whole thing without ripping it?


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"Dr. Bob" Setzer20-Jul-2011 21:16
OK, I finally learned that the female of this species is silver in color, so this was actually a mating. It was so great to capture it! But, now more esoteric thoughts emerge. I initially thought it would be great to just shed my "silver self" and be born again in bright yellow. Cool! Now - with more knowledge - I can just imagine mating while flying around. Occasionally pausing to "recharge". Whew!
OK, I know they are just butterflies, but nature can also release poetic mental images!
"Dr. Bob" Setzer18-Jul-2011 22:51
In a very strong way, I was hoping the bright yellow one was emerging from its former silver self. As a senior, I imagine many folks would relate to this thought!
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