I so hope NOT!
Gatekeeper (Pyronia tithonus)
If you look closely at the above image of a Gatekeeper butterfly, resting on our Bay Tree, you will see that there are a couple of nicks out of the trailing edges of the hind wings.
I suspect that these are marks made by the beaks of birds attempting to dine out but the butterfly outsmarted them.
You will see more clearly in the enlarged image below.
I think you're right. Old age wear and tear would be 'gentler.'
ReplyDeleteFortunately we have several that flit around our garden.As for wear and tear, tell me about it🤣
DeleteI hope the butterfly stays off the birds dining menu for as long as possible.
ReplyDeleteMe too. I lavishly feed the birds but that is no guarantee.
ReplyDelete