A spectacular Western yellow tiger swallowtail butterfly seeks nectar from a purple iris against a blurred green vegetation background This photo was taken on Mt. Humphreys, California, in the Sierra Nevada Range; however, it is a common butterfly throughout western North America. It is uncommonly beautiful. though, with its large, striking yellow and black wings and vivid spots of blue and orange near its tail. Its wingspan can measure an incredible 3 to 4 inches. Butterflies are pollinators and thus important to protect. They are also a fleeting, powerful reminder of beauty in the world.
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