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Gossamer Wing Butterflies of Massachusetts by Greg Dysart

Posted Saturday, March 24, 2018
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Many of us have missed recognizing various tiny butterflies that occasionally alight on the wildflowers of our fields and woodland edges. Several of these small butterflies are the tiny iridescent butterflies of the Family Lycaenidae, commonly referred to as Gossamer Wings. We have 27 species of this group in Massachusetts, some of which are rare, although others may be seen with relative ease. The talk will be an introduction to these creatures. Slides taken of wild and free butterflies will be shown along with a discussion of where and how to try to find them yourself. One species to be highlighted will be the Eastern Pine Elfin. This distinctive, dramatically patterned butterfly is a common resident of the Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge.

The presenter, Greg Dysart is a retired architect who has become an avid naturalist. He is also an exceptional wildlife photographer. What began as casual birding for him, has developed into a broad interest into learning more about the many creatures who share our environs. From Birds to Butterflies and recently Dragonflies, Dysart has shared his enthusiasm for wildlife through various local presentations. He is currently a Vice President of the MA Butterfly Club, and as such organizes the club's butterfly walks which are open to the public.

Butterfly season is just about to begin, so come and learn about these fascinating treasures of our natural world.

This presentation is co-sponsored with the Sudbury Valley Trustees.