Tag: insect

Probable golden-reined wasp (Sphex habenus, though S. flavovestita is also a possibility), in Portsmouth, Virginia. 

In direct sunlight the markings on this wasp look like flakes of gold leaf.

Please click on any photo in the set for full views. 

Probable golden-reined wasp (Sphex habenus, though S. flavovestita is also a possibility), in Portsmouth, Virginia. 

In direct sunlight the markings on this wasp look like flakes of gold leaf.

Please click on any photo in the set for full views. 

Red-spotted purple butterfly (Limenitis arthemis astyanax), in Portsmouth, Virginia.

This iridescent beauty has lingered all day in my garden, finally lighting on a perch low enough for a good view of its dorsal wing patterns. 

Please click the photo for enlargement.

Red-spotted purple butterfly (Limenitis arthemis astyanax), in Portsmouth, Virginia.

This iridescent beauty has lingered all day in my garden, finally lighting on a perch low enough for a good view of its dorsal wing patterns. 

Please click the photo for enlargement.