Butterflies and Storms

   With the recent storm that brushed through the area, one would have to ponder just how the wildlife manages to stay safe.  During Hurricane Katrina, we had critters literally begging to be let inside the Little Bayou House and we did allow several of them access to the entryway and even other parts of the house.  With that storm ravaging the place, my heart melted when I would see an animal so weary and frightened.  I am sure they appreciated a bit of respite.  Most hunkered down in a corner and rested. During the squalls of two nights ago, I thought about my critter friends.  Not that this storm was overly strong but, without shelter of some sort, it had to be a difficult night.  If I could, I would bring them ALL inside!  

  As fragile as they are, you have to be truly amazed that butterflies and moths can withstand storm winds and torrential rains.  They do, however, and seem to be unperturbed after it calms.  Early the morning after the squall hit, Son and I headed out to survey the damage done to the pier.  I had to stop before even reaching the board path.  A lovely Longtailed Skipper was resting on a spent 4 o'clock bloom.  Wow!  This was one of the most beautiful skippers that I had ever seen!  The colors were so vibrant and, amazingly, the wings were not marred by the rough weather.  This butterfly had to find some sort of shelter overnight. 

  It is a known fact that butterflies know to seek shelter when storms come.  Even during just a rain shower, they will hunker down beneath a thicket or in tree crevices.  We have had both butterflies and moths seek shelter under the eaves of our house, in the greenhouse and under car hoods.  They will search to find any place that blocks the wind and rain.  True, a lot of the insects and other critters still die during severe storms but most know how to fend for themselves.  Critters are smart.  Obviously, the skipper was wise enough to seek shelter.  It fared well and brought smiles after the storm.