Cairn's Birdwing

Another fabulous day in FL with Hillyblips and her Hubs.  We set out mid-morning for Butterfly World which had been recommended by several people...and it did not disappoint!  We spent several magical hours stalking butterflies in the huge aviary.  One of the most elusive of all was the Cairn's Birdwing - a flyer that never seemed to light anywhere and was constantly chasing other flyers.  I had all but given up on ever getting a photo of the creature when I suddenly spotted one about 18 inches off the  the path, calmly perched.  I dropped and started shooting, looking over one shoulder for Hilly or her Hubs so I could share the find with them.  Finally they came around and we all get loads of photos.  Yay, us.

Incidentally, this species is endemic to northeastern Australia , and is their largest endemic species.  When it's wings are open, they are the most marvelous emerald green and black.  

In Extra ... a shot of Hilly, hard at work, and a fabulous Blue Morpho with wings spread wide.  

Tomorrow we are heading south ... stay tuned...

Thanks so very much for stopping by, and for all the love this week.  I apologize for lack of comments, but time is limited this week.  

xo
Debbi