Large Blue Butterfly Enamel Pin | Ventral View
This butterfly is admired for its beauty, but there's more here than first meets the eye. Eggs are laid on the flowers of host plants like wild thyme, where a caterpillar can blend in as it feasts and grows. But upon reaching its fourth instar, something strange happens.
The caterpillar drops from its host plant and seeks out a red ant (Myrmica sabuleti). Using visual and scent cues, it mimics an ant larva. The ant rushes the caterpillar back to her nest, where it proceeds to gobble up its "siblings" as the worker ants groom and care for it. After a long pupation within the brood chamber, the adult butterfly hurries out of the ant nest before its wings expand. It then lives only a week or so to mate and propagate the species.
This matte nickel metal and UV-printed pin is approximately life-sized. Double-posted. Originally from the March 2024 Bug Box.
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One bag to rule them all
Take your collection on the road
A bold, modern way to display your enamel treasures.
Sturdy shoulder straps, zipper closure, and easy access to your pin display give this unisex bag enduring appeal, while the minimalist look puts your pins at center stage.
Our limited edition bags are proudly made in the USA and come with numbered hard enamel snail pins.
Take your collection to the next level - out your door, for a day or night on the town.
Details
- Fully designed and made in the USA
- 100% cotton canvas fabric / vegan-friendly
- Ample room for a laptop, records, or your daily haul
- External D-ring for keys
- Built-in liner and cover secure with Velcro
- Black bag comes with exclusive black snail logo pin / white comes with white. (Other pins not included.)
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DISPLAY MODEL bag has been used and handled at in-person events &has light wear on the plastic window, and is therefore offered at a discount. This is our last in-stock bag for the season.
Dimensions
- Height: 16.5"
- Width: 15.75"
- Shoulder strap height: 12.5"
