Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Led Zeppelin Roller Coaster

Construction begins on the new Led Zeppelin roller coaster at Hard Rock Park. Reminds me of a giant version of the Erector Set from my childhood. I get dizzy just thinking about dropping 150 feet and reaching 65 mph through the loops.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Sunday, July 22, 2007

Hummingbird Clearwing Moth

From a distance, this day-flying moth is often mistaken for a hummingbird. They have been an annual visitor to our Butterfly Bush.

Saturday, July 21, 2007

Assassin Bug Nymph


I love to photograph these guys for their bright orange coloring and willingness to pose.

Assassin bugs get their name by the way they capture insect prey.
( Warning! the following contains graphic description)
This stealthy hunter often approaches its victims from behind and stabs them with stylet-like mouthparts that inject a debilitating enzyme. (see last year's post) This enzyme dissolves the preys’ inner organs so that the assassin bug can suck them out, leaving behind an empty shell.

Friday, July 20, 2007

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Duskywing Butterfly


A Horace's Duskywing ( Erynnis horatius ) which is a common and widespread member of the skipper family.

Monday, July 16, 2007

Saturday, July 14, 2007

A Swallowtail Returns

The backyard butterflies have not been as plentiful this year. This could be due to the late freeze we had in April. I hope it is not due to any major change in the surrounding ecosystem.

Yesterday an Eastern Tiger Swallowtail visited the butterfly bush and lingered long enough for a few photos.


Friday, July 13, 2007

Tuesday, July 03, 2007

Anhinga

The Anhinga is also called a Snake-bird for its habit of swimming with just its long head and neck out of the water. This one is a female due to the brown neck ( Males are all black ). Notice the long tail and webbed feet.
migratory bird nesting area
Waccatee Zoo