Headed up to Carden Alvar, aka Carden Plain, a couple days ago to look for Odonates (dragonflies & damselflies) with my friend Gary. While the area is better known for its specialty birds, it was a great day with 32 species of odes seen. Surprisingly, one of the highlights of the day turned out to be of the non-ode variety -- a Harvester butterfly which alighted on my hand. I suspect it was seeking out the salt in my sweat (despite how charismatic I am). This uncommon species has a unique claim to fame - it's the only butterfly in North America whose caterpillar is carnivorous. Fortunately, the caterpillars dine solely on woolly aphids and the adult butterfly isn't carnivorous. Otherwise, I might have been in serious trouble!
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AuthorI have been giving nature lectures, walks & workshops since 1991. My main areas of interest are plants, fungi, slime moulds, dragonflies & damseflies, moths and biomimicry. Mind you, I know a fair amount about birds and other creatures too. Archives
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