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 |