When I visited Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge last week I spent some time photographing Gray Hairstreak butterflies, a butterfly species that is new to me.
Gray Hairstreak on an Upright Prairie Coneflower – Nikon D500, f8, 1/2000, ISO 640, -1.0 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
I “know” hairstreak butterflies just by looking at them, but I did have to use iNaturalist for help with identifying this species.
I learned about the Upright Prairie Coneflower after moving here to Oklahoma, so I already knew what the wildflower was.
I stopped on my way out of the refuge to check out this wildflower patch, hoping to find butterflies that were new to me. I was not disappointed at all. Quite frankly, I was elated.
I adore the big, dark eyes of this small hairstreak butterfly species, along with the orange and black markings on its light gray wings. What I didn’t get photos of, and that I am still hoping for, is a photo of this species with its wings open. I would love that.
Maybe on my next visit to the refuge that will happen! Or at home, since I recently discovered this butterfly species on a clump of Spotted Bee Balm, also known as Horsemint (Monarda punctata), in the yard here. How wonderful is that?
The Upright Prairie Coneflowers seem to be a favorite wildflower for many different species of butterflies, flies, bees, and moths. They are so bright and colorful that it is easy to see why so many insects are attracted to them.
I am thoroughly enjoying exploring this refuge for the birds, animals, insects, and wildflowers that I have had in my viewfinder.
On my first visit to the refuge, I saw a bobcat bound across the road in front of me. Unfortunately, it was still too dark to take photos, and I can’t photograph through my windshield with my long lens! I hope to be able to add a bobcat photo gallery to my site soon.
Life is good. I am giddy about all the “new” subjects I am seeing. How could I not be?
Mia
Click here to see my insect and spider galleries. Click here to see more of my flower, shrub and tree photos.
What a great pic! The detail and composition are wonderful. I’ve never heard of a grey Hairstreak Butterfly before this post. What a beautiful species! Thanks Mia.
Have you moved or are you traveling?
Whichever, I love your photos and the information you provide with them.
Wonderful experiences and pretty flower.
I am so happy for you – and your elation comes off the screen. Long may it continue.