Brimstone

The Brimstone are one of the few species that spend the most part of their adult lives as butterflies. Aren't their wings enchanting?

Brimstones are often the first butterflies to be seen, as early as February, and in the Autumn they are one of the last. They lap up nectar at this time of year to build up fat that will see them through the winter. Having a preference for purple flowers. this female was, of course, raiding the flowers of the Fleabane. Soon they will be sheltering from the cold of the winter, camouflaged perfectly, amongst Ivy or Holly leaves.

The word Butterfly is supposed to originate from the colour of the male Brimstone. Whilst the females are a very pale yellow, the males are the colour of butter... that flies!

Once again not the sharpest of images. One day I'll be convinced to use a flash!