August is a great month to look for butterflies, both adults and their caterpillars. Butterflies are nectaring on the profusion of meadow and prairie flowers, often visiting home gardens–especially those with established plantings intended to attract them.
Swallowtail butterflies are among the most common in area parks, including tiger, black and spicebush swallowtails, as well as the less common giant swallowtail. These large colorful butterflies are so named because they have tail-like tabs on their hindwings that remind us of a swallow.
Above are two swallowtails nectaring on bergamot, which is now in full bloom. A tiger swallowtail is at the top, and a giant swallowtail below. The butterflies were photographed by Art Weber, Metroparks Toledo nature photographer.
