Puddling Behavior by Lepidoptera

Visitation of mud puddles and patches of moist soil – puddling – is common among many Lepidoptera, as well as other insects such as leafhoppers (Cicadellidae). The phenomenon is most conspicuous among brightly colored butterflies that often form large aggregations at roadside puddles, along streams, or beside pastureland ponds. Among butterflies such as pierids and swallowtails, the presence of one individual often serves as a catalyst for the formation of these aggregations. Puddling is also common among many species of moths and leafhoppers, which are more scattered on the soil at night and do not form the spectacular mud-puddle clubs often seen in diurnal Lepidoptera (Fig. 125).

Puddling Behavior by Lepidoptera, Figure 125

Streamside aggregation of puddling pierid butterflies.