Duke Research: Creating Knowledge. Serving Society

Hiding in Plain Sight

A MALE BUTTERFLY known as a Falcate Orangetip rests against lichen on a rock in the Occoneechee State Natural Area near Hillsborough, showing off his excellent camouflage. This March 2005 photo was taken by naturalist Jeffrey S. Pippen, a research associate in the Nicholas School of the Environment and Earth Sciences. “Their ‘furry’ bodies probably provide extra insulation enabling them to survive the cold temperature swings that we get in March & April,” Pippen says. For hundreds more North Carolina and North American butterflies, see Jeff’s Butterfly Page.