I was sneaking up on a brimstone this morning and a fly joined in. Neither seemed bothered by the other and they remained like this for several minutes. Ive not seen this before, Is it common?
Dave
Brimstone and friend
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- Posts: 54
- Joined: Tue Feb 28, 2006 8:09 pm
- Location: Havant, Hampshire
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Hoverflies too
It is common to see hoverflies and other Diptera settling on the wings of Brimstones, particularly on mornings in April and May. The flies are probably attracted to the wings because they reflect solar energy very strongly - the heat is reflected back onto the body of the fly, and converted into energy. Brimstones also reflect ultra-violet very strongly, and this is probably detected very easily by passing flies.
Lots more about butterfly behaviour at :
Lots more about butterfly behaviour at :
http://www.learnaboutbutterflies.com
"promoting the conservation of butterflies and their habitats worldwide"
"entertaining and educating butterfly enthusiasts at every level"
"promoting the conservation of butterflies and their habitats worldwide"
"entertaining and educating butterfly enthusiasts at every level"