We were in Peterborough during sweltering days of high heat and humidity. We managed a morning walk in Jackson Park before the heat became unbearable.
The park’s trails descend steep slopes treed with White Pine, Balsam Fir and White Cedar into the wide valley of Jackson Creek. We chose trails that afforded shade and a variety of plant life.
Below: Fleabane, Chickory, Dame’s Rocket, Spotted Joe-Pye Weed, Creeping Bellflower, Tufted Vetch (aka Bird Vetch), Common Selfheal, Bittersweet Nightshade, Orange Day-Lily
Broadleaf Enchanter’s Nightshade, Fringed Loosestrife, Water Forget-me-not, Common Selfheal, Purple Loosestrife, Blue-fruited Dogwood
We heard ten species of birds, but only a Song Sparrow posed for a photograph.
We had a little better luck with insects!
Cabbage White butterfly and Confused Eusarca moth. We don’t know why it’s confused…
Ebony Jewelwing damselflies
Male (left) and female (right)
Widow Skimmer dragonfly
Aquarius, a genus of water striders
Common Eastern Bumble Bee
Back Home
We’ve had changing weather since we’ve been home, including some gloriously warm, sunny days with low humidity. The sky is often clear, but sometimes provides visual interest.
Flowers from Wandering Bee…
Our Ospreys
The pair are still protecting their nest site and repelling other Ospreys that come too close. But sometimes a pesky Red-winded Blackbird disrupts a meal. This video was made on Thursday morning. At least sometimes, the male continues to provide fish for the female to enjoy.
The Gentle Side of Paul Simon
Many of the songs written by Paul Simon fit this category – soothing, romantic, comforting.
Next week will feature upbeat songs written by Paul Simon.