02-JUL-2009
American goldfinch on DSV and Milkweed
These birds are becoming more numerous around the garden and in another few weeks, once the thistle blooms, will start nesting. This one was sitting in the midst of two related plants, DSV or pale swallowwort and common milkweed. One native and a good plant, one non-native and definitely not a good plant.
02-JUL-2009
Meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus)
Sitting on the trail seemingly oblivious to my approach, this little guy was quite surprised when I picked him up and he began struggling mightily. I just wanted him out of the way of passing dogs and vehicles.
02-JUL-2009
Mayfly (Ephemeroptera sp.)
This is one of the larger mayflies and it might have been newly emerged as it seemed to be pumping its abdomen quite a lot, as if just getting everything into working order.
01-JUL-2009
Red squirrel eating sumac flowers
I was a bit surprised to see this squirrel reaching up to pull off the newly emerged flower heads of the sumac and then eat them. He did this several times.
02-JUL-2009
Sweet pea (Lathyrus sp.)
I came across quite a patch of this garden escape in a different location from last time. In some areas it is considered quite a nuisance in natural areas, but so far, at least at FWG, it hasn't spread very much at all.
