The courtship behaviour of the silver-washed fritillary, Argynnis paphia (Heliconiinae, Argynnini), is described in most books or websites about butterflies. … More
Category: Butterflies
Just a bunch of weeds? Birds and bees on the slopes of the Futurist site, Scarborough
This site was created following the demolition of the old Futurist theatre on Scarborough seafront. Demolition of the building began … More
I want to get close to you! Habituation in butterflies
Red admiral, Vanessa atalanta, butterflies are notoriously territorial, particularly when they occupy their favoured spots in the late afternoon. I … More
Where’s the nectar? Butterfly nectaring behaviour
Butterflies are nectar feeders and require frequent access to the sugars and amino acids that nectar provides. How do they … More
Butterflies with black wings
Black. We all know what it is. The absence of light; the opposite of white. But are there gradations of … More
Order, order! Insect diversity.
If insects could talk – English preferably! – I would like to ask them what they think is the key … More
Insect tibial spurs: a highly versatile tool!
Tibial spurs are an ancient feature, found on most insects, from bees to moths, although in some species they have … More
Forelegs and four legs in butterflies!
The subject of reduced or modified forelegs in butterflies might strike some people as being rather obscure, but it is … More
Love in high place: hilltopping butterflies
It’s a wonder we all don’t meet up on the top of hills or mountains! It’s such a great way … More
Love is a carousel: courting Marsh fritillaries!
Marsh fritillaries, Euphydryas aurinia (Lepidoptera: Nymphalidae), are one of my favourite butterflies. The beautiful tapestry of yellow, orange and black … More
