June 23, 2012

Smooth Operators

This smooth operator is a common Buckeye butterfly.


The males like to hang out on drugstore corners plants that are low to the ground, looking for females passing by.  They patrol their turf  the surrounding area, and bully chase off other insects.  Their gang symbol eyespots, worn on the wings, may help scare off predators.


As of yet, entomologists have no proof that they slick back their hair with pomade, but they have confirmed the use of aftershave pheromones in attracting the ladies their mates.  This species is so common that it is obvious they have mastered dating courtship rituals.  They range all the way from Canada to South America, avoiding haircuts and full-time employment.

2 comments:

  1. Love this post and the story you didn't tell!!!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Sarah,
    Thanks! When I got to reading about them, all I could think about were young guys cruising the drag, looking for chicks!

    ReplyDelete

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