22-SEP-2018
European paper wasp (Polistes dominula)
These are the wasps that make small open-ended paper nests, usually attached to the underside of a building, or in a bird box, or in any other spot that seems safe. I am glad to see that recently some wasp researchers are trying to change the attitude of people towards wasps, which have a bad rap. Yet most wasps do NOT sting, they are prime pollinators, and they are after all, part of our ecosystem.
22-SEP-2018
The pond in early autumn
The pond where the great blue herons and mallards were hanging out, in previous photos. Already it is looking a lot like autumn.
22-SEP-2018
Great blue heron
This heron was noticed by a number of people as s/he tried to find something to eat in the pond. Great blue herons are common, but they are so big and so noticeable that to see one up close was clearly exciting for those who clustered around the pond to view it.
22-SEP-2018
Great blue heron
Another view of the heron as it leans forward trying to grab something from the water.
22-SEP-2018
Jumping spider (Eris)
This spider appears to have a tiny insect as prey... but can't make out what.
22-SEP-2018
Crabapples (Malus)
The bright red of the crabapples is a sure sign of autumn, a vivid colour against the golds and greens.
22-SEP-2018
Canada geese
The skies are full of the sight and sound of Canada geese as they wing their way south, or head north back to the Ottawa River, or east to cornfields. Once the cold weather hits, they'll be gone.
22-SEP-2018
Mallard, male
Three mallards and a great blue heron kept company at the western end of the pond.
22-SEP-2018
Red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
The sound of black walnuts hitting the ground is a sure sign that red squirrels are busy getting their winter food supply ready. Of course, they have to stop now and then for a snack...
22-SEP-2018
Velvet leaf (Abutilon theophrasti )
A non-native annual plant in the Mallow family, often considered an invasive at worst, a weed at best, this plant can grow quite tall. It produces large velvety leaves and distinctive seed pods. We've never seen many at any one time at the garden, and some years none at all. They grow best in disturbed ground, which the area around the pond is, after work on the site a few years ago.
22-SEP-2018
"Bee Haven"
Not technically in the garden, but adjacent to, this is one of several art installations for "Beyond the Edge: Artists' Gardens", this one by Engelina Schmitz. There were numerous bumble bees around the plants.
11 September 2018
Striped Garden Caterpillar (Trichordestra legitima), #10304