I almost missed this little American Copper butterfly at Fort Hill on Cape Cod. He was pretty camouflaged until he opened his wings for a second and I saw the beautiful orange color and black spots.
American Copper butterflies are small, only about 1″ with orange forewings and about 8 black dots and a black outer edge. When their wings are closed up, they look light grey with fine black dots and blend in very nicely .
Have you ever seen an American Copper butterfly?
The American Copper is one of Massachusetts more common butterflies. During the height of its flight periods it can be found in almost all areas of the state.
I chased this little Common Wood Nymph butterfly around at Fort Hill before he alighted on a leaf and I could take a photograph. I had not seen one here on Cape Cod before.
Common Wood Nymphs are dark brown with a prominent yellow patch on their forewings and 2 black eyespots above and below.
Part of the Red Maple Swamp Trail at Fort Hill in Eastham on Cape Cod has been closed for years, needing many repairs. Well, the repairs to that part are completed and the whole trail is open again!
Next time you are on Cape Cod, put it on your list of To-Do’s. It is so much fun for the whole family!
I saw this gorgeous pink wildflower on the side of the trail at Fort Hill in Eastham on Cape Cod and I have no idea what kind of wildflower it is! I can’t find it in any of my wildflower books or on the internet. Hmmm.
I think it is so pretty. It is very small, only about 1/2″, but so distinctive. I love the center… so delicate. Can anyone identify this wildflower? Isn’t it gorgeous?
Cape Cod daily articles on the wonderful Cape Cod places to hike, experience and photograph. A Cape Cod Outdoor Adventure Series.
