The Zebra Swallowtail

My lantana bushes are alive with butterflies and other flying bugs, all getting their daily sugar buzz before the rains roll in. When I went out looking for a zebra recently, it didn't occur to me that this could be what Rachael had seen! This is the most individual of the butterflies east of the Mississipi; they can be mistaken for nothing else. Very relaxed about being the center of attention, this beautiful creature fluttered around me like a maiden aunt around an unwed curate, striking poses within feet of me. It's stunning 4 inch wing span is difficult to miss, and I had a plethora of pictures to choose from, and I will post some more to Flickr later on.

And here it is!