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jonnysinsectcatalogue · 2 months

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Polydamas Swallowtail Butterfly - Battus polydamas

Though lovely this dark-winged Butterfly is, I'd have loved to see the dorsal side of its wings. Nevertheless, I won't complain too much given these pictures come from a long way from home and from a dear friend who has given us a glimpse to some tropical insects. This dazzling specie features pronounced veins and prominent red markings along the edge of the underside of the hindwing. The forewing features a yellow band that rides along the wing (but not to the edge) both above and below. It's similar to the band of the male Eastern Black Swallowtail but positioned lower on the wing and less steep in shape. The band appears somewhat faded on the underwing, hence why I would have liked to see the dorsal side. The Butterfly's body itself can be easily recognized from the coat of orange-red dots it wears and a similarly colored stripe running along the abdomen (which is partially visible in Pictures 1 and 4). With all these observations in mind, similar to the aforementioned Eastern Black Swallowtail, this specie may be mistaken at a passing glance with the Pipevine Swallowtail (a close relative: Battus philenor). Red spots or white spots, only a landing will tell, as the Pipevine has a royal blue shroud atop its wing scales (if male). Based on location, this individual is likely of the western group (subspecie B. polydamas polydamas), but there are many subspecies in the Central America range so I can't be sure.

It truly is a beautiful insect, and it maintains those stunning colors all throughout its entire development from Caterpillar to Butterfly. From the images I've research Polydamas Caterpillars are plump and dark (dark brown to black range) with a coat of orange spikes along their body and two long protrusions near their head. Such an appearance not only looks fearsome, but can also lead them to be mistaken for B. philenor Caterpillars. From the images I've looked at for comparison, the Polydamas Caterpillars are far more elaborate in appearance. However, when metamorphosed into Butterfly, there is one thing that is sure not to be missed on this specie...or missed, actually as the case may be. Contrary to some of its more popular relatives, this insect is also known as the Tailless Swallowtail! Unlike the handful of Swallowtails* that have graced this blog, there is a complete absence of hindwing tail, and appears to be the only specie in North America to feature tail absence. While these tails are beautiful to observe, it was enlightening to learn just how large the Papilionidae family was and how many Swallowtails actually lack tails. For example, the Palawan Birdwing (Trogonoptera trojana) is a Swallowtail (Birdwing), and though magnificent in size and iridescence, it too lacks tails. That's just the way the wings form within some branches of Lepidoptera.

*Note: As a Swallowtail, you can actually see all 6 legs active and strong, compared to the 4 active legs of the previous two tropical Brush-Footed Butterflies.

Pictures were taken on February 11, 2024 in Mexico with a Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra.

#jonny’s insect catalogue #butterfly #polydamas swallowtail #tailless swallowtail #swallowtail butterfly #lepidoptera #insect #mexico #february2024 #2024 #nature #entomology #invertebrates

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meltdrome · 3 months

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Devi, Satyajit Ray, 1960.

#Devi #Satyajit Ray #1960 #february2024

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lezbegreyt · 2 months

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#me #queer #lgbtq #gay #lesbian #girls who like girls #selfie #girls with piercings #snakebites #snapchat #february9 #february2024 #2024 #february #single #28 #lgbt #lgbtq+

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muratagawa · 2 months

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#plum #AobanomoriPark #February2024

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lovealexhunt · 2 months

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Quick Alex sketch on my way home today. Happy Valentine’s Day, beautiful!

🥺🥺🥺🥺🥹🥹🥹😍😍😍😍😍

Gahhh this was such an unexpected but lovely surprise!!! She looks so pretty! and ohmygosh!!! THE TINY HEARTS IN HER EYES ARE EVERYTHING!!!!!lkdsfj I love her!!!

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I feel like thank you isn't enough to truly express how truly grateful I am for all you do for me and for this fandom and for so many other people that I don't even know about. You are an extraordinary person! You are talented, kind, generous, accepting, all around amazing and inspiring. I adore you more than I can ever say! I am so blessed to have you as a friend! Love you!!!

Thank you again!!! She is so lovely! 🥰🥰🥰

#alex hunt #alex spencer #red carpet diaries #hollywood u #lilyoffandoms #lovealexhunt #february2024 #lovely things #things that make me smile #things that make me cry (happy)#save #keep #herrrrrr 😍

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tears-of-xion · 3 months

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Belated birthday drawing of Malleus Draconia feat. sunflowers.

This turned out so cute; I just wanna squish his cheeks (Sebek would try to end me lol)

Please do not use or re-post my artwork without my permission. Thank you! (reblogs, however, are welcome and appreciated)

I do not own Twisted Wonderland, nor it’s characters. All rights to their owners.

#twisted wonderland #fanart #malleus draconia #sunflowers #twst fanart #twst malleus #artists on tumblr #digital art #clip studio paint #February2024 #tearsofxion'sart #my art #tearsofxiondrawsTWST #this was my first time drawing sunflowers #and i'm pretty happy with how they turned out #the birthday outfits are very cute #want to draw more of them

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storyofmychoices · 2 months

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Crossroads

Characters: Nyx Selenastra (NB!Elf OC), Aerin Valleros FUTURE Pairing: Nyx x Aerin Book: Blades of Light & Shadow 2 Word Count: ~1,500 Rating/Warning: General/mention of Baulder's murder (no graphic descriptions of violence)

Synopsis: Aerin follows a unicorn through the woods, only for it to lead him to a mysterious elf. (This takes place after Aerin leaves the group in book 2.)

A/N: I'm not 100% happy with this, I don't feel I have Nyx's voice just right but I wanted to share this for @choicespride's Aromantic Spectrum Awareness Week so here it is. I'll keep working on Nyx's voice as I keep exploring them. [Nyx is demi]

Aerin followed the unicorn as it wove a path deeper through the forest. With each step he felt destiny’s gentle hand nudging him forward. Whenever he fell behind, the unicorn's graceful stride slowed as though patiently waiting for him.

He wasn't sure how long it had been or how far they had traveled before the beautiful creature finally galloped through an opening in the trees. As Aerin emerged into the moonlit clearing, he found himself absolutely spellbound by the luminous glow of the moonlight that bathed the unicorn's coat. His sense of awe deepened as his eyes fell upon the tall elf standing beside the creature, their hand brushing tenderly over its neck. The unicorn responded by nuzzling even closer. A dark raven perched upon the elf's shoulder, never stirring.

Aerin's feet led him closer, step by step, approaching them. The elf's gaze shifted toward the newcomer for the first time. Aerin paused as their eyes met.

The elf’s features mirror the mystery of the forest and the beauty of night’s sky. The elf watched him with a mix of curiosity and warmth. The raven on their shoulder carefully observed his every movement with keen observation.

Aerin shifted back on his heels, wondering how to proceed or if he should turn back entirely.

As if sensing his worry, the unicorn stepped forward, lowering its head to the newcomer in welcome.

Aerin’s arm trembled, extending it toward the majestic creature. Excitement and nervous anticipation swirled in his eyes as his fingers brushed against the unicorn's mane. He had never hoped to have an opportunity such as this. He had read about unicorns. He’d even seen one briefly with Daenarya, but he’d never been this close. Never touched one.

Nyx watched curiously before breaking the silence, "You are not like the others who stumble my way." They placed their hand on the unicorn's neck, letting their eyes close for a moment.

Aerin watched curiously, his eyes widening in wonder as the unicorn's horn seemed to shimmer at the elf's touch.

"LunaRose senses something within you, something you have yet to discover," Nyx continued while stroking the unicorn a few times before dropping their arm.

"What do you mean?" Aerin shook his head in confusion.

Nyx's amber eyes held a comforting reassurance as they spoke, "The forest has a way of helping those in need. LunaRose acts as a guide, leading those who require a nudge toward the path where their destined future lies."

"What is this place?" Who are you?" Aerin questioned curiously.

Nyx's lips curved into a gentle smile, "This is Starlight Hallow, my home within Ravenswood. My name is Nyx. You've already met LunaRose, a companion of mine. This is NightWhisper—" they gestured toward the raven perched on their shoulder, which responded with a low croaking sound, its eyes still trained on him. "Be nice." The words were directed toward the bird.

Aerin glanced around, taking in the surroundings. The moonlight bathed the scene in a silver glow. The flowers of the field shimmered, seemingly brushed by the night's kiss. Tucked in the forest near the edge of the clearing beyond a garden filled with large white flowers hid a stone castle, not large nor grandiose, but one that blended in with the contours of the land, the forest embracing it with reverence.

"It's unlike anything I've ever seen." He quieted a laugh rising in his throat. "And I've seen more than most."

Nyx nodded thoughtfully, not knowing what he meant, but somehow, still understanding.

"I'm Aerin, by the way. Aerin Va—" He stopped himself, breathing deeply. He was a wanted fugitive who had killed the heir of his kingdom—his brother. He had been disowned by his family. He was nothing to them, not that he ever was before. He could lose the name, but he had decided no more deceptions—no matter how small. "Valleros."

"I know." Nyx nodded. "There are many who look for you, even now."

"I'd understand if you'd turn me over to them," he offered, rubbing the back of his neck sheepishly.

"I have no allegiance to any kingdom, only to the forest and its will. LunaRose sees not what is, but what could be. She senses purpose within you. You are welcome to stay here, should you wish."

"Do you know what I've done?"

"Only whispers."

"And you'd still allow me here?"

"It is not my place to pass judgment," Nyx offered gently.

"And what would you ask of me in return for my stay?" His heart raced. He had never been welcomed anywhere, not without someone wanting something from him. In his youth, many had used him to get to his brother or the King. None ever saw him. In the shadows, they wanted a voice to help bring rise to a new kingdom. He had been a pawn for all of his life, even with his former companions, he was a means to an end of navigating the shadow realm. No one ever just wanted just him, just Aerin.

"Nothing. I serve the forest and all those that travel its paths," Nyx answered plainly. "You are welcome here until you find the answers to the questions your mind searches for."

"I've always felt like an outsider." His confession startled him, yet, it felt freeing. His gaze returned to the unicorn. "In my kingdom, I was overshadowed by my brother. He was arrogant and prideful, but the crown was his even if he didn't deserve its honor. He thought not of the will of the people but only of power. My father was the same. He never saw me for who I was or could be, only as something less than Baulder... I thought I could find solace in the shadows, but they only led me to darkness, toward a form of myself filled with evil."

"The shadows are not inherently evil, Aerin. They are part of the natural balance. It is how we navigate them that defines our path," Nyx explained. "Without shadows, we can not find the purpose of the light."

"What if my shadows left me scarred with corruption beyond repair?" Aerin's heart pounded heavily, the scars across his chest a burning reminder of what he'd done. It was a question that had plagued his mind over the past year. He had rid himself of corruption as far as he knew, but still, he feared it would find its hold over him once more.

Sensing the weight of Aerin's words, Nyx spoke softly, "The shadows of one's past can obscure the light of one's true self. Ravenswood welcomes those seeking refuge from such darkness, hoping to make peace with their shadows and move forward toward balance."

The moonlight glimmered in the vulnerability in his eyes, "I... I've done things—many things I'm not proud of... one I admit I still feel little remorse for...I took a life—my brother's life."

Without judgement, Nyx placed a reassuring hand on Aerin's shoulder. "The past does not define you, Aerin. We all carry shadows, but it is in facing them that we find our strength and redemption."

"Tell me—" Aerin's gaze shifted back to the unicorn that had led him on this path. "—do you believe even villains can find redemption?"

"Villainy, like any label, is a matter of perspective. It's defined by one's perception of another's actions, not necessarily on who they are." Nyx's eyes met his with quiet determination. "Redemption is not a destination but a journey. Redemption is found in the choices one makes and the roads one travels, not in the shadows others cast. It's about confronting one's own darkness and choosing a different path. Is that something you would consider?"

He swallowed the lump in his throat, nodding his agreement. "Yes."

"Redemption is not an easy road, but the forest guides those who seek it," their words offered him reassurance. "I will help you."

"How? What do I do now?" Aerin's attention returned to Nyx. "How can I find my place in the world?"

"In time," Nyx began, turning toward their home. They extended an arm forward. "For now, you should rest. It is late, and you must be tired."

The pair walked forward, the night's air drifting around them, drawing their path together

"Thank you." Aerin's words were quiet, but the elf heard them all the same.

Nyx nodded their understanding, welcoming the newcomer into their home. They knew not all who stood at a crossroads and sought redemption found it, but they would choose to hope for the best of those who found their way to them. In the ever present struggle for balance between shadows and light, redemption eluded some, but in every heart that sought it, a glimmer of possibility remains. It is within that hopeful spark that the true journey of redemption begins.

I really adore Nyx so I hope you enjoy this introduction to them. I hope to continue exploring them.

#nyx selenastra #aerin valleros #aerin valleros x oc #blades of light and shadow #blades of light & shadow #bolas #choices #playchoices #choices game #fan fiction #february2024 #nyx x aerin #aerin x nyx #storyofmychoices #lovealexhunt

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meltdrone · 2 months

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like my body?

#reagan holiday #2024 #february2024

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chonbi · 2 months

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Xiao ◇ Ginkgo Leafs ✨

Reposting and use are prohibited. 🚫

This is my first fanart contest for Genshin Impact. ( I already know I'm not going to win, but I'm happy to participate in this fanart contest)

Note: I am so surprised by the progress I put together on this artwork of Xiao. As a beginner in digital art, I am satisfied with my improvement.

HoYoLab account: chonbi

Art : @chonbi

#genshin impact #genshin impact fanart #genshin impact xiao #adeptus xiao #xiao fanart #ginkgo #february2024

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theartoflovingthomashunt · 2 months

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Cafe Whispers and Scone Kisses

Pairing: Addison Sinclair x Alex Spencer (F!MC) ; Thomas Hunt x Alex Spencer (mentioned) Book: Hollywood U Word Count: ~350 Rating/Warnings: general, no warnings, all the fluff Prompts: @choicespride Date Night Day? ; @choicesfebruary2024 /@jerzwriter : Ludus ; @choicesficwriterscreations FOTW + Pride; A/N: I couldn't find my SSs or videos, so I edited this! Thanks to @gutsfics for my Alex transparent.

Synopsis: Alex and Addison have a coffee date.

Addison tucked a strand of hair behind Alex's ear as she pressed a tender kiss on her girlfriend's cheek. "You look beautiful."

Alex's finger tenderly grazed Addison's jaw, guiding her lips to her own.

Their lips met sweetly, the busy cafe pausing around them. Addison's hand rested on the small of Alex's back as Alex cradled her face, keeping her locked in her embrace. Addison couldn't stop her growing smile.

"I've missed you," Alex whispered as they parted.

"I was only gone for the weekend."

Alex laced her fingers with Addison's, guiding her to a quiet booth in the back where she already had coffee and scones waiting for them. "Am I not allowed to miss my gorgeous girlfriend?"

Her cheeks warmed as she chewed the corner of her lips. "I just figured you'd be distracted with you know who... and not even think about me."

Alex laughed softly, her gaze lingering on the blonde beside her. "You have no idea how incredible you are, do you?"

"Alex—"

"You are insanely talented, generous, kind, gorgeous, and all-around an incredible person. How could I not think about you?" Alex marveled. "I have room in my life for both of you. And you know who doesn't mind sharing me. I think he might actually enjoy it."

Addison hid her smile behind her vanilla latte, taking a sip of the warm liquid. "I missed you too."

"Good," Alex beamed, her gaze never leaving Addison. She shook her head slightly, unsure how she got so lucky to have two wonderful people in her life.

As they enjoyed their coffee and scones in the cozy booth, Addison couldn't wipe the smile off her face. She rested her head on Alex's shoulder, relaxing into her arms. "I'm lucky to have you."

Alex grinned back, "The feeling is mutual, trust me."

The pair nestled comfortably in the corner of the cafe, talking about their respective weekends, sharing words of adoration and soft laughter, forgetting the world around them, and focusing on the warmth blossoming between them.

Just thinking about these two recently and thought it was about time I give them a little drabble!

Not really edited, just something that popped in my head today.

#addison sinclair #addison sinclair x mc #addison x alex #alex x addison #hollywood u #choices #playchoices #choices game #fan fiction #february2024 #lovealexhunt #theartoflovingthomashunt #cfwc lgbtqia #alex spencer #alex hunt

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