Browsing: pollinators

Yes, I am writing about flies – again. In my previous story, An Ode to Maggots, I acknowledged that larval flies get no respect. For the most part, that is true of adult flies as well, especially the species that bite, buzz your face, or fly up your nose. And yet, may I argue that flies are important in our world, whether we appreciate them or not. In part, I offer a few photos of flies that are less offensive, but beautiful, captured with skill by my friends Curtis and Sharon.

School is out for the summer. What to do with those kids that have nothing to do but stare at a glowing screen all day. Try to entice them outside with hands-on activities that keep their interest. Here is one of a couple I will share in the coming weeks.

My friend Bob Brzuszek has done it! He has gotten the city of Starkville to not mow in March, to give pollinators a great start in early spring and highlight the diversity of native wildflowers that feed them. The city’s Go Wild initiative encourages homeowners to do the same and take the time to look for and learn about wildflowers and their pollinators (https://www.cityofstarkville.org/680/7316/Highlights).

Have you ever noticed nearly perfect round holes in leaves and wonder what made them? Well, wonder no more, for you have proof that leafcutting bees are nearby. These small industrious bees have evolved to cut and weave these excised pieces of leaves to make their nest.