Category Archives: Critters

Backyard bird bonanza

Posted on May 1, 2012 by Betty

The migratory birds in the backyard have been a special treat lately. The first to arrive were the rose-breasted grosbeaks (Pheucticus ludovicianus). The name is obvious when you see the strikingly-marked male, while the female reminds me of a large … Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Birds, Spring | 12 Comments

Pipevine flowers

Posted on April 24, 2012 by Betty

Our four-year-old pipevine (Aristolochia tomentosa) is now covered with heart-shaped leaves. This year for the first time it has flowers. They are inconspicuous, and without prompting from my plant guru, Connie, I likely would have missed them.

Posted in Backyard, Butterflies & Moths, Native Plants | 6 Comments

Six-spotted Tiger Beetle and Purple Phacelia

Posted on April 17, 2012 by Betty

Harry and I recently hiked to the Rock Garden, one of our favorite spots at Natural Bridge State Park. Among other things we enjoyed seeing a Six-spotted Tiger Beetle (Cicindela sexguttata). It doesn’t look at all like a tiger – … Continue reading →

Posted in Insects, Kentucky State Parks, Wildflowers | 8 Comments

Red Admiral butterfly

Posted on April 9, 2012 by Betty

I was at the Lexington Arboretum recently and saw at least fifteen Red Admiral butterflies (Vanessa atalanta) in the same area. I’ve often seen Red Admirals, but usually only one at a time. After some reading, I’ve discovered these butterflies … Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Butterflies & Moths, The Arboretum | 15 Comments

Photography equipment

Posted on April 2, 2012 by Betty

This post is in response to recent questions about my photography equipment. Technology is not my strong suit, so I tend to keep my equipment simple. My primary camera is a Canon Rebel XSi. It’s lightweight, just over a pound, … Continue reading →

Posted in Backyard, Butterflies & Moths, Spring, Trees | 2 Comments