Those red zinnias are at it again

The large, velvety zinnias
in my back yard are providing a spectacle again this summer. Attracted by the bright red hue, all sorts of birds and butterflies alight on the seasonal patch of color.

With daily high temperatures in the 90s, several species of butterflies flit back and forth drinking in the nectar of the flowers. Just in the past few days I've noticed Gulf Fritillaries, East Coast Swallowtails in both the stunning yellow and black forms along with yellow sulphur butterflies, a few Admirals and several different skippers. But so far this summer, I haven't spotted any Monarchs.

Ruby-throated hummingbirds are common visitors, as are the bright yellow male and dullish-hued female American Goldfinches.