A speedster, this Cleopatra butterfly has taken a moment to rest. It’s July 9th at Ramat Hanadiv, Israel. This verdant arboretum is a wonderful place to seek butterflies. The staff is friendly and encouraging.

Gonepteryx cleopatra are among the most difficult butterflies to approach and to photograph.  Our male here cooperated and allowed a few clicks of the camera lens. They fly most of the year. The are found in Jerusalem and north to the Golan. Those in Jerusalem never afforded me enough time to set-up for good results.

Their elusiveness set a real challenge for me. I offer this image as my best to-date.

Jeffrey