More Garden Insects and Migrating Birds

 It is almost Labour Day weekend already, a sure sign of the end of summer, so I have been taking advantage of each passing day. One of these days I might find something spectacular, but luck is not with me.

I am still watching the garden, and still finding the odd new insect.  However, with most flowers having died off, there are less nectaring sources.

Here are some of this week's photos:

Green Cloverworm Moth

Common Checkered-Skipper

Modest Sharptail

Great Spangled Fritillary

Dark Paper Wasp

Obscure Plant Bug

Lunate Longhorn-cuckoo Bee

Western Honey Bees are quite common, another European species.  They have been in the garden as well, but this one I photographed at Peers Wetland.  It is an "in-flight" photo which turned out quite well, so I include here.

I go to Peers almost every day.  This morning was clear and calm, and a few migrant birds were seen.

Ovenbird (2 today)

This Merlin was warming up in the morning sun.

There were a few Magnolia Warblers, but this one was trying to tell me something I think!

A few warblers have been passing through the yard as well.  Cape May Warblers seem to be the most dominant!  As many as four have been seen at one time.  It is my favourite warbler.

(long distance shot!)

A short walk at Reid CA the other day showed the high water situation.  The trail was flooded in the old river course valley.  This is unheard-of at this time of year!

Butterflies are fewer of course, but this Eastern Comma was in the parking lot.

Today, I still found one Dukes' Skipper.  Latest I have seen one here of course.  The latest Point Pelee record is September 8, but I doubt I will make that!

Yesterday I had the urge to go to Rondeau Park.  After a short lakewatch (conditions were not ideal for a good movement of birds), I checked out south point trail.  It was a good choice, as it was loaded with birds!  Most dominant appeared to be Red-eyed Vireos, where I had over 60.

About 18 species of warblers were seen as well, but too active to try and photograph.

This Great Egret was notable as it flew over the light beacon area.

It is the time of year when liatris plants are in bloom. Cylindrical Blazing Star is out in its usual location at Rondeau.

As well asters are coming into bloom.  I believe this one is Large-leaved, unless anyone can tell me otherwise.

It is also the time of year to look for Smoky Rubyspots, which I have been thinking about this week.  However, with the excessive rain, river levels are extremely high and and the usual locations are difficult to access.  Still lots of time ahead though.

Swamp Rose Mallow