Red Admiral Observations

[Joel Lyons]

The Urbanat Butterfly Garden here in the lower garden district of
New Orleans is at the corner of Magazine and Euterpe Streets.
The adjoining structure (my home) is an 1867 Italianate style
town house with 16 foot ceilings on both floors.  Some
nearby structures are somewhat higher.  Red Admirals were
the first-out butterflies after this past winter's (unusual for
the Crescent City) cold snap; about three days of overnight
freeze.  They've kept a constant presence this year to date.
Observations:  For the most part they whiz around like a
miniature banshee at heights of  less than six feet.  However,
as you know, they are quite territorial and have buzzed me
when I'm near their host plants back in the shady part of
the garden (only about four hours of full sun per day).  I
have witnessed them engaging Gulf Fritillaries at altitudes
of about 12 or so feet, but on one occassion watched one
give chase to a Monarch right over the roof and out of sight.

aude scire!



 
 ------------------------------------------------------------ 

   For subscription and related information about LEPS-L visit:

   http://www.peabody.yale.edu/other/lepsl