19-Sep-2019
Hover fly larva (Syrphidae)
Another type of larva is this odd looking thing, the larva of a hover fly. They are predatory on insects, particularly aphids.
19-Sep-2019
Asian lady beetle larva (Harmonia axyridis)
Another fierce predator of aphids is this critter, the larva of a lady beetle.
19-Sep-2019
Black walnut (Juglans nigra)
Adding to the natural bounty of wild food for wildlife are the many walnut trees which are laden with nuts at the moment. Most, if not all, of these trees were planted by squirrels over the years.
19-Sep-2019
White snakeroot (Ageratina altissima)
This native plant does well in shady areas, grows tall, adds a dash of brightness to the undergrowth and attracts insects to nectar on it.
19-Sep-2019
Mountain ash (Sorbus)
At one time there were, I think, four mountain ash trees at the north end of the old woodlot and at this time of year saw much activity as birds feasted on the berries. Now only this one tree remains, but for how much longer? It is gnarly and broken, but still producing some of this beautifully coloured fruit.
19-Sep-2019
Twice-stabbed stink bug (Cosmopepla)
Although September is racing by, there are still numerous insects out and about such as this small but attractive stink bug.
19-Sep-2019
Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus)
There were still several monarch butterflies flying around the garden, nectaring on the numerous new england asters.
02-Sep-2019
Bee fly (Sparnopolius confusus)
Nectaring on flat-top aster.
02-Sep-2019
Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus)
Another monarch photo, also in the Butterfly Meadow. This one was on grass-leaved goldenrod.
02-Sep-2019
Red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus)
It seemed as if this squirrel was trying to pretend to be part of the trunk, hoping I wouldn't see him.
02-Sep-2019
Buffalo treehopper (Ceresa)
There are various Ceresa species, often found clinging to twigs or stems of plants.
02-Sep-2019
American lady butterfly (Vanessa virginiensis)
Similar in many respects to the painted lady butterfly, this one has not been nearly so numerous this year. A couple of this species were nectaring in the Butterfly Meadow.