The Garden Bug: Puddling
By Brenda Weaver
This behavior, where butterfiles and other insects gather to feed at sandy puddles, moist soil, or on dung, carrion or animal secretions, enables them to supplement their diet with amino acids, sodium and nitrogen necessary for survival and reproductive success. Male butterflies puddle more often than females, as the sodium obtained enhances offspring fitness. Sunlight, moisture, humidity and mineral concentration strongly affect site selection.
Source: Vigyan Varta 6
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