Red Admiral

Vanessa gonerilla gonerilla.  This red admiral is found only in New Zealand.

Its preferred food plant is the native nettle Urtica ferox, which doesn't grow around here.  Judging by the condition of the wings the butterfly has not come far.  Perhaps it was raised on the common nettle that I nurture in my garden.

Best viewed large.

One year ago:  My favourite moonset shot.  For many years I have loved to watch the full moon setting, and to photograph it.  For half the year it moves toward the north over the mountains, then it returns to over the hills.  However, since last November clouds have obscured the setting for all the mornings around the full moon.

My moonset collection.