A patch of thistle was growing at the edge of a parking area at Santee National Wildlife Refuge, Cuddo Unit. I suspect it was planted or at least encouraged by human intervention: it was a little too neat to be just wild.
An assortment of insects were working the thistle blooms, with a Black Swallowtail standing out.
The blooms were in all stages of development, some well on their way to releasing seeds for a new crop.
I really love these Ellen. I especially like the final image where you show the environment and world the butterfly thrives in. Wonderful!
Thank you, Peter! This was our first trip to this property — I could have spent the whole time right in this little corner 😃 .