05-JUN-2015
Pale green weevil (Polydrusus)
A common weevil at this time of year, one of three in the genus introduced (accidentally) from Europe. Often found on poplars.
05-JUN-2015
Song sparrow
One of the common nesting birds around the garden with at least several pairs on the site. Today, the most commonly heard birds were these, yellow warblers, american redstarts, black-capped chickadees and cedar waxwings. Other birds seen include red-wing blackbirds, tree swallows, crows, starlings, cardinals and american goldfinches.
05-JUN-2015
Golden alexanders (Zizia aurea)
Photographed in the Butterfly Meadow where its tall form and golden flowers catch the eye including of insects. This native species is rare around the Ottawa area known from only a few locations.
05-JUN-2015
Highbush cranberry (Viburnum trilobum)
When in flower, this shrub is striking. Later on, it has masses of bright red shiny fruit, but unfortunately few if any wildlife eats it. It may be that this shrub is a cultivar whose fruit is not palatable.
05-JUN-2015
Butterfly meadow
At this time of year, the meadow is a palette of soft hues with the lupines and dame's rockets. Bees are especially attracted to the lupines, but the dame's rocket also attracts many insects.
05-JUN-2015
Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis)
Also known as touch-me-not because of the habit the seed capsules have of springing open and flinging their seeds out, when touched. Their orange flowers in late summer attract hummingbirds.
