Wheel Bug

Posted on November 22, 2011 by Betty - click images for a larger version

My husband, Harry, was working in the backyard and called my attention to an interesting insect he had discovered. It was a Wheel Bug (Arilus cristatus) and the unique spiky wheel-like formation on its back is the source of its common name.

Arilus cristatus

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Posted in Backyard, Insects | 7 Comments

Autumn’s last hurrah

Posted on November 15, 2011 by Betty - click images for a larger version

I’ve been captivated recently by our Red Maple (Acer rubrum). It’s just outside our dining room window and I’ve tremendously enjoyed its brilliant leaves.

Acer rubrum in NovemberIt is especially beautiful in the morning when the leaves are backlit by the morning sun, creating a stained-glass effect. Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Fall, Native Plants | 2 Comments

Late-season butterflies

Posted on November 8, 2011 by Betty - click images for a larger version

I was surprised last week when I saw a Monarch butterfly (Danaus plexippus) in the backyard. And on Sunday, I saw this one sunning on the ground at The Arboretum.

Danaus plexippus Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Butterflies & Moths, Fall | 10 Comments

Fall colors – part 2

Posted on November 1, 2011 by Betty - click images for a larger version

Harry and I recently hiked in the Red River Gorge in Eastern Kentucky to enjoy the fall color. Trees were creating the biggest splashes, however shrubs and low-growing trees were also adding to the color and bringing it closer to eye level.

Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) was abundant with its colorful mitten-shaped leaves.

autumn sassafras albidum leaves Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Fall, Native Plants | 4 Comments

Fall colors

Posted on October 24, 2011 by Betty - click images for a larger version

The leaves of our Black Gum (Nyssa sylvatica) also known as Black Tupelo, and the Bald Cypress (Taxodium distichum) are signaling a change of seasons.

nyssa sylvatica and taxodium distichum trees Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Fall, Native Plants | 11 Comments