Water from a Stone? 2011-07-01 This is the same kind of butterfly as in my picture two days ago - a Fritillary - drinking from the gravel on the path. It seems that they like the moisture under the stones, since it contains minerals they need. Best seen in the smaller sizes ;) - slightly over-sharpened. And thanks for all the comments on my fish shot. Such amazing photos in the dailies - you are really talented.
Dead lunch? 2011-06-28 I rode my bicycle through our nearest natural park - the Lobau, in Vienna's 22nd district. I guess I spent as much time taking pictures as cycling. There were several of these butterflies (Argynnis paphia - Kaisermantel - Silver-washed Fritillary) obsessed with this dead leaf. I assume there was still some sap in the leaf and that it was a bit intoxicating. Update: a bit of web browsing came up with the fact that the by-product of some molds is alcohol, and that butterflies can get drunk on alcohol. That's probably what is happening here. Many thanks for your comments on the model of Vienna. I didn't get around to putting up a picture yesterday
Hanging Out 2011-06-18 Another dragonfly shot from a nearby pond. A bit of a tight crop, but still sharp enough, I think. Many thanks for the comments of my picture of baby storks. The nest is up high, so they are well protected and not afraid of people down below. I got as far away as I could for the shot - so that the angle wasn't too great.
