insect

Insects

/ Rebecca / 6 Comments

I saw fewer insects in my flower garden this summer than I have in the past.  The sweet autumn clematis and climbing milkweed vine, which usually teem with a variety of insects, seemed still and quiet.  However, around the lake, the insects were more visible.  Maybe because of the high heat and humidity that we’ve had, they, like me, have sought a cooler spot to pass the day away.

“How could this earth of ours, which is only a speck in the heavens, have so much variety of life, so many curious and exciting creatures?”  ~Walt Disney

Drawn to the lantanas

/ Rebecca / 8 Comments

Enticed by its sweet smelling nectar, these butterflies could not resist the bright, beautiful blooms of the lantana plants.

“Smell is a potent wizard that transports you across thousands of miles and all the years you have lived.”  ~Helen Keller

Finding bugs

/ Rebecca / 10 Comments

Occasionally during the summer a climbing milkweed vine will spring up in our backyard and cover another already established plant.  Though considered a problem weed, sometimes I allow it to stay around for a while because I enjoy observing the variety of native insects that are attracted by its strongly scented, tiny white flowers and sappy stems.

“Leave part of the yard rough.  Don’t manicure everything.  Small children in particular love to turn over rocks and find bugs, and give them some space to do that …”  ~Richard Louv

Common buckeye

/ Rebecca / 8 Comments

There were a number of buckeye butterflies fluttering about the tall grass that was growing along the Mississippi levee.  Occasionally they would alight for a short rest (and a photo) before continuing on their way.

“If you get tired, learn to rest, not to quit.”  ~Unknown

Floating along

/ Rebecca / 6 Comments

An Eastern Amberwing dragonfly floating along atop a dried leaf at Reelfoot Lake.

“Sometimes opportunities float right past your nose.  Work hard, apply yourself, and be ready.  When an opportunity comes you can grab it.”  ~Julie Andrews