Hoersholm, Denmark, 14 June, 2019. Several hundred millions, perhaps half a billion, painted lady butterflies (Vanessa cardui) have invaded Denmark during the last few days. An invasion not seen at least in 25 years. Arrived with battered wings from South Europe, the Middle East or North Africa these migrating butterflies are now seen swarming around feeding on nectar. The journey lasts a few days helped by a following wind. Soon the females will lay eggs, often on thistles, and a new generation will take off in July-August and migrate back in September-October. Credit: Niels Quist/Alamy
Painted lady suking nectar from flowers. Visible, bent trunk (proboscis) deep into flower. In this case not thistles but from flowers on a cherry laurel hedge.
Size: 3283px × 2189px
Location: Hørsholm, North Sealand, Denmark
Photo credit: © Niels Quist / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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