Butterflies are the Very Essence of Nature

Do you remember the joy you experienced as a child every time you saw a butterfly? Can you think of anything in nature that is more qualified than a butterfly to represent freedom, beauty or tranquility?

All of these images were taken at White Rock Lake in east Dallas, Texas. Most of them were taken on the banks of Dixon Branch Creek, just before it enters the lake.

The beautiful creature below is a Common Buckeye butterfly. It is a fabulous chestnut brown with 6 bright colorful eye spots.

Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia)

The Monarch is a spectacular species, and one of the most popular butterflies. These amazing creatures migrate to warmer climates and can travel up to 3000 miles in the process.

Monarch (Danaus plexippus)

Butterflies have been around for at least 50 million years and are an important component of the Earth’s rich biodiversity. They have been studied for over 300 years.

The striking fellow below is a Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta).

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) at White Rock Lake, Dallas, Texas

Dorsal view of the Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

Butterflies have the most fascinating life-cycles. The transformation from egg to caterpillar to chrysalis is one of the great wonders of nature.

The beautiful specimen below is a Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia).

Variegated Fritillary (Euptoieta claudia)

Butterflies are good indicators of a healthy environment and healthy ecosystems. Based on the abundance of butterflies at the lake right now, one can only conclude that White Rock Lake is in an extremely healthy state.