Lotsa Spots

I think this is an Asian import, the Harmonia axyridis. Yes, it's a ladybug. Yes it's cute but it's also nonnative and drives native ladybugs out.

Green Guard

Our resident mantis, if it's the same one, has gotten much bigger this summer. I'm a little concerned about the black spot on one of its legs. No eggplants have appeared but the plant should be pest free.

Cordial

The weather was pretty much perfect today. Light breeze, blue sky, and comforting sun. I want more.

Xylocopa virginica?

I saw these bees in the butterfly garden as well as all over any other flowers I happened upon. They seem hairier than a carpenter bee but I can't figure out what else they might be. So, until I learn otherwise, I'll think of them as Xylocopa virginica.

Stained Glass

The butterfly garden lived up to its name. Primarily, monarchs were taking advantage of the floral offerings. There were lots of big, fat bees too.

Eastern Cousin

Here's an Eastern Tiger Swallowtail that I snapped just before a thunder shower began. I wish I could have gotten some better pictures so I could compare it with its cousins in the West. Next trip, perhaps.

Curvature

As I peered down it was hard to find any spot on the ground that looked untouched by humans. That made me a bit sad. Great views helped cheer me up.

Juvies

Harlequin bugs are infesting all of the mustard weeds along the river. It's interesting how different the patterns are on the juveniles as compared to the adults. Despite the bugs, the day was gorgeous, cooler and breezy and it was great to get out for a walk.

Blue Whale

Besides the blue whale (whose tail fluke was 20 feet wide!), we saw a couple of humpbacks. And then there were the Risso's Dolphins and the Dall's Porpoises (not to mention the black-footed albatross). What an awesome experience.