A Master of Disguise.

[Zonda]

This is not a particularly great pic of a Green Hairstreak, but it does illustrate how this butterfly has evolved to resemble a new bramble leaf. Note the shine of a new leaf, bright green colouration, thorny brown edge, complete with thorn-like spikes. I think that this butterfly can alter the position of its wings to reflect the particular green around its position, thus making itself almost invisible. I observed this individual landing, and kept a keen eye on it. However, from 4 to 6 feet away, it was invisible, even to me.

[Padfield]

So maybe they've been right in front of your eyes all these years, Zonda!

Interesting, isn't it. They are so well camouflaged and yet they zoom out attacking anything that comes past, almost actively drawing attention to themselves... Proud, brave little creatures!



Guy

[Zonda]

So maybe they've been right in front of your eyes all these years, Zonda!

Almost certainly have Guy. I have always looked at the natural world around me, and i have always been astounded by it's beauty. From fungi, and to birds, to butterflies as well. I have always been interested enough to notice. When i was sitting on the slopes of the Cerne Giant today, there were loads of families about. Only one man asked me what i was photographing. He just couldn't see. I told him that there were this species and that species, just in this small area. He walked on, wife and kids in tow. Just as i might have walked on,,, two years ago.