23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Butterflies "puddling" near the Duck River

Butterflies can sometimes be seen clustered on muddy riverbanks, a behavior known as "puddling." This is a way for them to get vital nutrients that are absent from their usual diet of nectar. This group of Tiger Swallowtail and Black Swallowtail butterflies are puddling on the banks of the Duck River, in Maury County, Tennessee.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Maury County, Tennessee, United States of America
Camera: LEICA M10
Copyright: © Virginia Hines