We raised Painted Lady butterflies at school - here is one of the last ones, on my hand, being released into the morning sunshine. I love the flash of gold on his back (he is a male, we've made a study! :)
@alisonp It's been brill - I usually do Luna moths, but we are not allowed to release them in this country and it's sad watching them flap about a cage all their lives. These are much smaller - but the release is worth it :)
what an incredible shot of an incredible moment. the detail you captured is fantastic! i have never seen on up close like this, how wonderful. fav! love this so much.
@anazad511 The male Painted Ladies have smaller abdomens than females and males are more colourful - but you can only tell when you have both to compare them :)
What a beautiful macro shot!