Valley of Butterflies

In the western side of the island of Rhodes, approximately five kilometers south east of the village of Theologos (or Tholos), lies the Valley of the Butterflies (Petaloudes). This is one of the most attractive destinations on the island. During August, thousands of butterflies of the genus Panaxia (species Quadripunctaria Poda) overwhelm the valley in order to reproduce. During the rainy period, the Butterflies in the caterpillar stage remain in the Mediterranean thicket (arbutus, myrtle and rush) feeding on the foliage. As the end of the wet season approaches, towards the end of May, the final stage is concluded and the butterfly in all her perfection makes her appearance in the form recognizable to us all. They move constantly towards areas of highest humidity is greatest, always following the "water ways", as the dry period progresses, they finally arrive at the valley.


This was one of my favorite location during all summer trip! I love butterflies and this was like a dream place where you are surrounded by thousands of them! They were all over the place and sometimes it was really hard to see them when actually they were right there in front you! Know why? Check it out than:

 

 

 At the church

You see now what I mean?...

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Love, Kiki