A Great Golden Digger Wasp (Sphex ichneumoneus) is a fine discovery on any walk.
Even those among you who have an aversion to wasps will admit that it is a beautiful insect.
Every late summer/early fall brings prolific blooms of New England Aster (Symphyotrichum novae-angliae) - and we rejoice anew.
There is little in my experience that is more stirring that a flock of Canada Geese (Branta canadensis), flying in formation and calling to each other.
I am pretty sure that this caterpillar is the larval stage of a species of Pug Moth (genus Eupithecia).
There are over 40 eastern Eupithecia, but coverage seems to be restricted to the adults moths, with little description, and virtually no illustrations of the larvae.
The moths are known to select asters and goldenrods, among other plants, to deposit their eggs, however.
Hoverflies are fascinating insects and I am quite confident that this is an American Hoverfly (Eupeodes americanus).
The adults feed on nectar but the larvae are voracious predators of aphids. If you see them in your garden welcome them as friends and treat them well!
A Western Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) is a desireable visitor too, performing essential pollinating services.
A Great Blue Heron (Ardea herodias) stalked deliberately and patiently in its seemingly never-ending quest for food.
Several Killdeer (Charadrius vociferus) were present, but none close, and there was a bit of heat shimmer on the marsh.
Neither Miriam nor I can come to any conclusion as to why we photographed this tree; perhaps an insect that moved just before the picture was taken. In any event, the texture of the bark is interesting in and of itself, and I am happy to show it to you.
A Bald-faced Hornet (Dolichovespula maculata) packs a powerful sting, so be sure not to get them riled up.
This Drury's Long-horned Bee (Melissodes druriellus) bears all the signs of a successful foraging expedition.
These fields of goldenrod (genus Solidago) and milkweed (genus Asclepias) provide both food and breeding habitat for a variety of insects, including Monarchs (Danaus plexippus).
Some people are surprised to learn, shocked even, that dragonflies and damselflies are efficient, carnivorous predators.
An Autumn Meadowhawk (Sympetrum vicinum) put in an appearance.
I expect that you will agree that Miriam took some fabulous pictures of an Eastern Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa virginica).
Many flies are extremely difficult to identify; the best I can with this one is to assign it to the subfamily Exoristinae.
Partly concealed by the goldenrod we spotted this member of the suborder Ensifera - Katydids, Crickets, and Allies.
Mallards (Anas platyrynchos) didn't seem to be doing much of anything; wisely not exerting themselves in the heat.
Once again, Columbia Lake, a mere five minutes from home, had delivered its treasures, and we were a couple of happy naturalists.
We'll be back! Of that you may be sure.
TRIVIA
Recently I read an account of a ranger in Zimbabwe who shot a poacher who was about to kill a critically endangered Black Rhino. Condemnation was swift and harsh from human-rights groups, who were outraged that the ranger would take the life of a human to save an animal.
The ranger offered this scenario: "If I were a police officer in Harare and a man ran out of Barclay's Bank with a bag of money and I shot him in the head and killed him on the spot, you'd call me a hero. You'd pin a medal on me, and say, 'Good boy.'"
Isn't it ironic that we will kill to protect paper money, and be honoured for it, yet to act in defence of the natural heritage of a country, the patrimony of the entire world in fact, is not considered right, just or appropriate?
Where do your values lie?
Always a pleasure to see a heron. It's such an elegant bird.
ReplyDeleteYou poacher shooting story reminds me of ho some people put their dogs to sleep once they get a little bit old . We were talking at my vets one day and they told me I'd be surprised how many people do that. I get that some pets develop expensive health issues (that's what Miss Maddie is for us right now), and some people can't afford the treatments (which luckily we can even if it is squeezing the budget). But the comment the vet made was would you do that to your grandmother when she came down with something. Animals have as much right to quality of life as we do. Rhinos included. and poachers have no reason to take the life of an animal not doing anything to threaten them . Bon soir, et a la prochaine. (missing the needed accents of course)
ReplyDeleteMy sympathies are with the ranger. Of course. And yes he is a hero in my eyes.
ReplyDeleteMiriam's photos are exceptional. Thank you both for taking me/us on another delightful outing.
The ranger is the hero! I agree.
ReplyDeleteI am truly sorry to hear the sad story of the poacher in Africa. It's a serious problem there and really is appalling that endangered animals are so vulnerable particularly in protected areas! Humans certainly do disappoint!
ReplyDeleteBoth of you take splendid photos. Thank you sharing your love of all things.
A great collection of insects and shorebirds, once again, David. And there are some definite beauties in this post even if I would not like to be up close. The story about the ranger and the poacher does pose an interesting question. I would also side with the ranger assuming the poacher knew he was hunting an endangered species.
ReplyDelete...I try to capture the details that surround me, but you put me to shame!
ReplyDelete