Pearly Crescentspot

Pearly Crescentspot
Originally uploaded by CaptPiper

There are multitudes of these butterflies, along with the sulphurs and whites, in the meadows and alphalpha fields this year. It seems that every year there is some insect species that experiences a population explosion. A few years back we had those ladybug impersonators, the Asian beetle swarms, that were so unpleasant. There are not nearly as many now. Other years it's been crickets, box elder bugs, Japanese beetles - probably some others I didn't notice. I wondered if there would ever be something I liked. This year, I haven't seen nearly as many of the big showy butterflies like the monarch and the swallowtail, but these guys look like flying flowers blooming in the clover.

Paradox Flower

Paradox Flower
Originally uploaded by CaptPiper

The color of the coneflower center is gloriously attractive, but all the spikes on the coneflower would seem to be designed to make things difficult for the pollinator; kind of like a beautiful woman who gives would-be suitors dark looks and the cold shoulder. But the bees and other insects are in love with these blooms and will not be deterred. The reward must be worth the effort.
As in life, the highest goals are attained only be the most dilligent and determined pursuers.

Taking a Break

Taking a Break
Originally uploaded by CaptPiper

I'm back on my bike this summer. Can't believe the pounds aren't just melting off from the heat and the strain.
I like the back roads, even though they are gravel, because there is not much traffic. You have to be careful of dogs, though. Most of them are scary barkers, but won't hurt you. ONe little spainel near Sheridan Road came streaking towards me, barking like he wanted to tear my leg off. About 20 feet away, he made a wide U-turn and went barking back to the house.
There are a few, though... On Wilbur Road, you can travel from east to west, because you are rolling down hill when you go past the dogs and by the time they realize youu are there, you're almost gone and it's too much trouble to chase you. But if you are traveling the other way - east to west - then you are going up hill and moving slowly - easy prey.