A few days ago I ventured out of my house (something I don't do often) and settled myself in the shade of my apple tree which is flanked by a 30 foot long by 14 foot high hedge of Lilac bushes in full bloom. The air was heavy with scent and the sun was shining; the wind breezing; and the birds singing...a perfect day...couldn't get more perfect...ah but could it? When I was a youngster I used to study and catch butterflies, and spent many entire days cycling to a vacant lot by the railway on Chartwell Rd, accompanied by my best friend, a thermos of Roses lime cordial, and some peanut butter sandwiches. There we stayed, running back and forth, our nets waving vigorously in hot pursuit of that illusive Tiger Swallowtail, or Fritillary.
Preamble over with... as I sat under my tree I noticed some slow rhythmic movements, and fluttering, above and upon the blossoms of the Lilac bushes, and although I thought it was a Tiger Swallowtail at first (which are common) I soon realized that it was a Giant Swallowtail, and not only one, but a dozen!!! Wow! I was blown away. Giant's are very slow and graceful, spending allot of time on the plant, while opening and closing their wings very slowly, followed by occasional wafting from bloom to bloom and fluttering rather than flying between blossom's. It was like an incredible ballet, and these beautiful creatures came back every day..all day...for 3 days! Just when your getting ready to sell your soul for a quick and easy death, something comes along to show you that maybe there are things worth hanging around for. After all my continued existence can't harm the butterflies right??...well....I did "collect 2" specimens but I couldn't help myself...I had to "capture" the moment...literally. Hmmmm.
While looking foe a picture of this butterfly I came across this article from the Ottawa Citizen about the arrivak of this species in our area! Please read the link and view the pic so you'll know what your seeing in your garden and how truly cool that is...may be global warming has some perks.....ya think?
Oh by the way writers....what is the "strike through" option for? School me please.
