Life prevails against all odds in extraordinary ways…
In Canada, and possibly in other countries that experience below freezing temperatures in the Winter season, certain species of butterflies known as “anglewings” (since they have particular angle-shaped wings) actually defy death by hibernating!…
They are delicate butterflies like other species, yet they survive the harshest winters in their adult forms without dying. They find crevices to shelter themselves from the elements so their wings don’t get damaged, and perched there, they then become dormant throughout the cold weather. As soon as there’s a sunny, warm day, even if it’s in the middle of Winter, they rouse back to life and flutter around their environment. If it’s Spring, they look for mates. The one in the photo is of the “Comma” family, feeding on the juice of wild grapes. When they close their wings, they look like perfect dried leaves.
I’ve seen such butterflies many times while walking in the woods when snow is still abundant and it’s cold enough to wear a jacket. It always amazes me to see them fluttering around in the sunlight while I couldn’t imagine not having layers of clothes to keep me warm! They’re always such a joy to see. Another of Nature’s glorious wonders… ♥
With love and wonder-filled spirit,
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