I guess it’s a good thing that I’m retired, as lately I seem to have spent a lot of time chasing butterflies. (And it’s not easy—Look at these videos 1 2! from May!) Maybe it’s because there seem to be so many, especially in the meadow, where milkweed is abundant. They also like the purple coneflowers and butterfly bush. (I know—it’s invasive….)
![Appalachian Tiger Swallowtail (Pterourus [Papilio] appalachiensis)](https://i0.wp.com/frenchbroadhollow.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/img_5720.jpg?w=556&h=417&ssl=1 "IMG_5720")
Sometimes I don’t have to chase them at all; it’s more like they’re chasing me! When I walk, I often see them on the road, and these red-spotted purples like resting on doormats, the patio, etc. (I have tried to identify the butterflies but welcome suggested corrections.)
The first time I saw a hummingbird clearwing moth, I wasn’t sure what it was. They hover like hummingbirds!
I continue my rambles in the Hollow. The river has been up most days, although we hadn’t received as much rain as they did upriver.
Today a peloton went by!
The deer and turkeys continue to come for meals. One (the mother of the twins) is brave enough—or hungry enough to eat from my hand!
And they are waiting now, so I’ll post again soon!
French Broad Hollow Ramble 