Butterflies photographed by Mark Berger

Photographer Mark Berger, inspired by the yearly butterfly exhibit at the Columbus Conservatory, sent us the following three images. Enjoy!

-charlie

Green Vein Charaxes

Charaxes are among the fastest flying butterflies in the world, some reach speeds of nearly 40mph! They are nearly impossible to chase on the wing so catchers wait until they are at rest or sunning. Charaxes are highly desirable and they have extraordinary undersides richly designed and colorful.

Typically dwelling in medium and high altitude tropical African forests, members of the species prefer densely wooded areas and often fly high in the tree canopy. Such traits can make the species extremely difficult to catch unless one knows the secret to attracting the elusive butterflies.

Graphium agamemnon is a predominantly green and black tropical butterfly that belongs to the swallowtail family. The butterfly is also called Green Spotted Triangle, Tailed Green Jay or the Green Triangle. It is a common, non-threatened species native to India, Sri Lanka through Southeast Asia and into Australia.

Once found primarily close to wooded country where there is a fairly heavy rainfall, the Green Triangle is now very common at low elevations and regularly seen in gardens.

Strong and restless fliers, they are very active butterflies and flutter their wings constantly even when at flowers. They are seldom seen drinking from damp patches

Common Sargeant

Great Spangled Fritillary