The cone flowers are still in the meadows and gardens, but it seems that they're nearing the end. At least they look a bit wilted now. Leaves have begun to drop from some of the early trees, though the lack of rain may be partly to blame. 

I stood outside. At first, I saw no bees, no butterflies, no dragonflies. It was as if my own motion prevented me from seeing. As I stood still, the flowers came to life. They were all there. I lifted my camera...

I watched the butterflies. Some seemed to work in teams, landing simultaneously on a flower and flitting off together. Others were solo.  

One note: The lens used is an amazing lens that I use frequently for sports. I don't use a tripod for this lens. And though I loved it already, it sure is fun to get these nice nature shots with the lens. I don't own a macro, but that's probably all for the better for living things that probably wouldn't stand for me being too close, still or not....

Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly on Cone Flower, ISO400, f2.8, 1/2500, 70-200mm lens at 180mm

Great Spangled Fritillary Butterfly on Cone Flower 2, ISO400, f2.8, 1/2500, 70-200mm lens at 200mm