Observation date: May 16, 2020
Submitted by: mstanek
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: I had been photographing the Anise Swallowtail which has been confirmed on Sighting record. 1248676. Then we walked further up the trail (just a bit) and saw these 3 butterflies chasing each other. I knew they wouldn't land so I tried to catch them mid flight. They circled very fast around a few times like in a playful chase game. I did not see them land again. It was about 80F that day. We were on the bluff of the beach. I caught two pictures of them circling but one is more clear then the other. You mentioned to me that one could be a Indra Swallowtail and could be a record for Santa Barbara county. I think the one Anise swallow tail that is in this trio picture is the same one I was photographing on the fennel because it also seems to have a damaged wing. I am willing to give you my real name but I am not sure how to reply to your email without it going public on the website. When I get your email, it says: "Please do not reply to this email."
Status: Resident
Verified by: Ken Davenport
Verified date: May 18, 2020
Coordinator notes: I cannot identify the black one, I wish we had the actual butterfly to examine but we don't. Even if a black form of the Anise Swallowtail, that would be a highly desirable record. Nick Lethaby lives there, if you know him, show it to him. You can email me at kdavenport93306@yahoo.com-Ken Davenport
