Here in central Texas, it is well known that we are in the migratory flyway for many species of birds, but what may be less well known or appreciated is that we are also in the path of millions of migratory butterflies. Of course the migration of the monarch between the northern U.S. and Mexico is well documented and perhaps overshadows the phenomenal number of other species that fly through or stay for our relatively mild winters. This autumn has been especially rich in the sheer number of butterflies that seem to have taken up residence here. I'm not a butterfly expert and in attempting to identify the species that seem most prevelant, I've come up with the American Lady, although they also look like a Comma or Crescent. They are relatively small in size, but more than make up for it in number. And while driving through the beautiful back roads of the Hill Country, it's impossible to ignore them, if only by how many are left on your windshield. The pictures I've posted are of a Queen Milkweed butterfly and of a Variegated Fritillary. This migratory phenomenon is just one more reason to get out and explore the amazing natural environment of the Texas Hill Country.
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