Close to shore . . .

Exploring closer the shoreline today I made some unusual finds.  A dragonfly lives most of its life underwater as a nymph.  They have exoskeletons, so in order to grow, they molt off their old 'skin'.  This looks like the final molt left-over for an adult dragonfly.



Not long afterward, I came across a Great Black Wasp enjoying a swamp milkweed.







And lastly, the skeletonizing Japanese Beetles are back.  This one is enjoying lunch under the spotty shade of his own handiwork. 

Enjoy!

~ Robin

This and That and They're Back!

I saw many things on my walk this evening.  A Great Black Wasp was enjoying a delicious dinner compliments of a Virginia Mountain Mint.  They are a large wasp whose wings sometimes look dark blue.


Not far away, an army of Japanese beetles were making short work of the leaves of this plant.  This invasive beetle is back.  Originally from Japan, they seem to be claiming and conquering many a leaf in our park.













On a prettier note, also found a small Eastern Tailed Blue butterfly.

Enjoy!

~ Robin