Monarch Butterflies

Who Ate These Butterflies?
Close inspection of a dead butterfly gives a clue as to its predator:

Photo
Predator
Clue


#1


Black-headed Grosbeak
The monarch's abdomen is entirely missing.

#2


Black-backed Oriole
The monarch's abdomen is present, but it appears to be "unzipped" (slit open) and the thorax is gorged.

#3


Black-eared Mouse
Caches of butterflies are found on the ground, and only the wings remain.
Photos of predators copyright Dr. Lincoln P. Brower, Sweet Briar College


© 1997 – 2024 Journey North. All rights reserved.