15-JUL-2016
Cuckoo wasp (Chrysis sp.)
27-JUL-2016
Praying mantis (Mantis religiosa)
The familiar praying mantis insect, a European species that has long since established in North America, after being accidentally introduced in the late 19th century. They are well-known for their beneficial role in controlling many insect "pests" while they themselves do no harm to vegetation.
27-JUL-2016
Clover looper moth (Caenurgina crassiuscula), #8738
A nicely detailed photo of this very common, but not easy to photograph, moth, taken by Diane. As the name suggests, the larval food of this species is clover, as well as grasses.
20-JUL-2016
Little glassywing skipper (Pompeius verna)
A new species for the Fletcher Wildlife Garden, found by Diane. At one time this would have been considered a real rarity, but in the last year or two, the species seems to have moved into the area in good numbers and has been found in a variety of locations, including now, at the FWG!
20-JUL-2016
Little glassywing skipper (Pompeius verna)
Another shot of this little skipper butterfly from Diane.
21-JUL-2016
Ravine
It is interesting to notice the changes here in the ravine section of the Fletcher garden. The flowering raspberry (Rubus odoratus) was present many years ago but in small numbers. Now, the entire south bank of this part of the ravine, closest to the pond, is thickly covered. And best of all, this native plant seems to have smothered the invasive dog-strangling vine (DSV). Sadly, the DSV is abundant in other parts of the garden.
21-JUL-2016
Eastern grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)
This squirrel kept up a constant stream of chatter the entire time I was in the Backyard Garden photographing. Clearly not happy...
21-JUL-2016
Peachtree borer moth, male (Synanthedon exitiosa), #2583
Another very un-moth-like moth on some tansy flowers. The Clearwing moths (Sesiidae) are an intriguing group of moths, many of them wasp mimics/
21-JUL-2016
Orbweaver spider (Argiope aurantia), male
A tiny male orbweaver spider on some grass. The male of the species is so much smaller than the female as to appear invisible when next to her.
21-JUL-2016
Backyard garden
A different view of the Backyard Garden, with the Interpretation Centre seen behind the ferns and shrubs.
21-JUL-2016
Fern walk
A view of the attractive fern walk, created for the Fletcher Wildlife Garden by Lis Allison, located in the Backyard Garden. A variety of native ferns can be found along this short trail.
21-JUL-2016
Backyard garden
Looking good in the late day light!