Butterflies IN FOCUS

Readers captured the brief moments when these fast-flying garden guests paused among summer foliage.

This American lady visited my

garden a few summers ago. I love this close-up because it shows the intricate details of the butterfly's wings and eye. The purple coneflower also provides an interesting contrast to the blue-green background. Katerina Kretsch BRISTOL, CONNECTICUT

I took this photo

of a skipper the summer I got my first digital Canon DSLR. I never knew what these tiny butterflies looked like up close! It was neat to catch all of the details, such as the way the light shines on its eye and proboscis and through its wings. Gina Howell HUNTINGTON, WEST VIRGINIA

Sunf lowers

always seem to please everyone, from squirrels to grackles, goldfinches and chickadees. On this particular day, three monarchs went from bloom to bloom, enjoying the flowers. It reminded me that I don't have to leave my yard to experience the beauty of nature. Mary-ann Ingrao ANGOLA, NEW YORK

Royal and magnificent

are spot-on descriptions for the regal fritillary. I took the photo as this one sipped nectar from a butterfly weed in my backyard. This visitor is becoming scarce because of a decrease in habitat, making the sighting even more special. Gail Huddle MCPHERSON, KANSAS

It’s challenging to photograph

butterflies that are constantly on the move, so when this cabbage white finally landed on my butterfly bush, I took advantage of the opportunity. It may not have the colors and patterns of some fellow fliers, but I think it has a beauty all its own. Barbara Houlihan MADISON, WISCONSIN

I captured

this photo of a white peacock butterfly with my Canon EOS at the Brookfield Zoo near Chicago. It was my first time checking out the butterfly exhibit there, and all the different kinds were amazing! Heidi Kelly PLAINFIELD, ILLINOIS

An eastern tiger swallowtail

eluded me the first time one visited our garden, and

I lost my chance at a photo. But another one was gracious enough to come and stay awhile. I took many shots and captured this special moment with a sunflower. Elisabeth Stuart COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA