This poor fellow just flopped down on the concrete parking lot at work today while I was headed to lunch. Had only moved a few feet when I got back. Picked him up and moved him to the zinnia bed in the shade where there is also a bit of water. Seemed pretty feeble, poor thing. His top side sable with white spots along the edges of the wings. This gorgeous underside is something I've never seen before. Probably really common, but the only butterfly I can recognize is a Monarch. :-)
Debra:
This is a Pipevine Swallowtail (Battus philenor). Cause of death could be old age, attacked by a predator (spider) and escaped, etc. Since you're in Dallas County, you might want to check out the website of the DCLS (see below) to learn more about the area butterflies.
Dale Clark
Dallas County Lepidopterists' Society
www.dallasbutterflies.com
Thank you, I will. Appreciate the information. :-)
