PHOTOPHILE- Flutterby: Ivy Creek walkers eye lepidoptera

Almost all anyone knows about moths and butterflies is that they're pretty garden creatures, but on Sunday, August 20, the Ivy Creek Natural Area helped visitors get up close and learn fascinating details about local lepidoptera.

In a talk called "Winged Wonders: Summer Butterflies," volunteer Mike Scott explained how to identify the bright creatures and how to distinguish them from moths. Scott has been studying and cataloging butterflies for over 30 years and has led such walks at Ivy Creek every month during butterfly season for eight years. 

Every month, approximately 25 people– from two to 80 years old– participate in the walks. Sunday,  32 people enjoyed the area but found only four types of butterflies, a dearth Scott blames on the current drought.

Despite the paucity of papillons, everyone enjoyed the day at Ivy Creek.

Mike Scott demonstrates different types of native butterflies.

Aaron Hummell, 8, examines Mike Scott's collection.

Montana Edward, 14, goes on many different outings with his family. "I like to learn about nature," he says.

Seven-year-old Raymond Abounader is crazy about butterflies.

Anna Abounader, 2-1/2, enjoys he day.

A Skipper butterfly feeds on thistle.

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