What's in a Name? -- Malachite Butterfly at the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History, California Wood Print

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Siproeta stelenes is scientifically accurate but not very colorful. “Cu2(CO3)(OH)2 Butterfly” just wouldn't have the same ring to it. And so, this beautiful insect was named the Malachite Butterfly after the striking green stone with beautiful patterns of lines and swirls.

It's green namesake was first mined in Egypt and Israel over 4,000 years ago for its copper content. Since then the mineral has been used as a gemstone and as a medium for sculpture. It has also been believed to protect against black magic, have healing properties, and possess the ability to release negative emotions, and more.

Malachite Butterflies are found throughout Central America and northern South America, where they are among the most common butterfly species. They were introduced to North America in the 1960s and can now be found in southern Florida and Texas.

I have been photographing the things I see for over thirty years. A resident of San Luis Obispo County, I'm lucky to have many excellent photo destinations within a few minutes' or hours' drive. Beyond the local area, I have traveled throughout California and the western United States, visited far away American destinations such as Chicago, New York, Florida, and Alaska, and international destinations in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. My photography varies from Architecture to Industrial Art to Nature to Wildlife and I'm sure you'll find something suitable for your home or office. Visit my blog