Today was the once-a-month-or-so time to visit the town dump, and, with the trash and recyclables deposited in their proper places, my reward was a trek. Given the infernal heat and humidity, I opted not to hike my go-to promontory, Lantern Hill, and, instead, explore an often-exciting old field. I was hoping for Ladies'-tresses Orchids in bloom, but I guess I was too early. However, there were dragonflies aplenty and the neatest of butterflies: a Viceroy, which is an almost perfect mimic of the Monarch. The Viceroy is a little smaller than the model, but the real giveaway is what's known as the Black Postmedian (PM) Line on the hind wings—only the Viceroy has this adornment. Monarchs, as is well known, are toxic to birds, and their orange and black coloration serves as a warning signal. The lore had it that Viceroys were perfectly edible, but gained a measure of protection by mimicking the Monarchs. Not so: Viceroys are also toxic and their resemblance to their model makes it easier for birds to learn to avoid both species. Alas, what works with avian predators does not impress Yellow Jackets, one of which persistently harassed the butterfly. No harm done, and the photographer reaped the open-winged annoyance.