Monday, October 05, 2026

Miscellaneous Recent Sightings

      I am out and about most days, and Nature never fails to deliver exciting and satisfying experiences. 

Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon)

     There is magic in the air when a kingfisher utters its loud rattling call and zooms over the water.  Sometimes they even perch for a picture!


Spotted Spreadwing (Lestes Spreadwing)

     So called because of its habit of perching with its wings spread at about a 45 degree angle from its body, this is a late flying species that I often see well into October.


Northern Leopard Frog (Lithobates pipiens)

     This very attractive and widespread frog is a master of camouflage, enabling it to prey effectively on the insects that comprise the bulk of its diet, while simultaneously providing cover from would-be predators.



Western Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) on New England Aster (Symphotrichum nova-angliae)

     Western Honey Bee has colonized most regions of the world, often to the detriment of native species .



Narrow-headed Marsh Fly (Helophilus fasciatus)

     This is often the first flower fly I see in the spring, and well into the fall. They are associated with wet areas, but they are commonly found on flowers, from which they get both energy-giving nectar and protein-rich pollen.


Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis)

     Much beloved by everyone, Northern Cardinal is always a welcome sight.


Common Sneezeweed (Helenium autumnale)

     The species name autumnale refers to the flowering period of this plant. it is called sneezeweed since its powdered leaves were used to induce sneezing, believed to rid the body of evil spirits.


Milbert's Tortoiseshell (Aglais milberti)

     A very handsome butterfly, Milbert's Tortoiseshell is a fierce, pugnacious defender of its territory.


Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta)

     Red Admiral is instantly recognizable, even to people with no particular interest in butterflies. It is common and nectars on a variety of plants. It is sometimes seen in prolonged territorial disputes with Milbert's Tortoiseshell.


Northern Paper Wasp (Polistes fuscatus)

     Generally not aggressive away from its nest, it is nevertheless wise to treat this species with respect and not annoy it. It has an intense, painful sting.


Canada Goose (Branta canadensis)

     I will leave you with a Canada Goose standing on guard for all of us in these troubled times.


     Until the next time.....
David M. Gascoigne,
David M. Gascoigne,

I'm a life long birder. My interests are birds, nature, reading, books, outdoors, travel, food and wine.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge that the land on which we are situated are the lands traditionally used by the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, and Neutral People. We also acknowledge the enduring presence and deep traditional knowledge, laws, and philosophies of the Indigenous Peoples with whom we share this land today. We are all treaty people with a responsibility to honour all our relations.

Followers