18-NOV-2015
Bald-faced hornet nest (Dolichovespula maculata)
At this time of year one often finds these paper nests on the ground, torn apart. Sometimes people do this, but animals do it too, hoping to find some food inside, perhaps larvae that didn't hatch out.
03-NOV-2015
Firefly larvae (Lampyridae)
Barry found this collection of larvae under a leaf pile. The larvae of fireflies can often be found in moist situations such as this. (CH)
03-NOV-2015
Crust fungus
An apt name for this fungus, which is indeed very crust like.
16-NOV-2015
Red squirrel number 2
From Sandy - I've always assumed the little Red Squirrel who took up residence in the roosting box closest to our Resource Centre "owned" that whole area along the first part of the Bill Holland Trail. But today, Catherine and I noticed a squirrel sitting in different walnut tree. As Catherine snapped this photo, I ran to check the tree next to the trail and, sure enough, our Red Squirrel was in his/her usual spot. So he/she has a neighbour!
November 16, 2015
Gilled mushroom
While working in the New Woodlot, Catherine found a couple of large mushrooms. This view right at ground level shows off the elegant lines and large gills of this species.
November 16, 2015
Gilled mushroom
Another of the large mushrooms found in the New Woodlot today. The stem on this one looks quite thick. I love the jaunty angle of its cap!
15-NOV-2015
Grey squirrel
Lots of squirrels, both grey and red, around the garden, some still caching food, others building, refurbishing or repairing their winter nests, as this one had been doing.
15-NOV-2015
Insect cocoon
A tiny cocoon on a white pine needle, perhaps of one of the tiny moths.
15-NOV-2015
Red-winged blackbird, male
This blackbird was calling loudly from the cattails in the pond. Although it seems late for these birds, there are still blackbirds in the region, perhaps taking their time to migrate given the warmish weather we've had in November.
03-NOV-2015
Northern spreadwing (Lestes disjunctus)
The weather has been so mild that in early November even this damselfly was still out and about.
03-NOV-2015
Harvestman spider
A spider scuttling off as Barry caught it before it vanished. Proof that a lot of the little creatures are still around.
