The Call of Spring
What a great day as we usher in March! Life is starting to emerge from the winter sleep.
A really great beetle, Buttercup Oil Beetle (Meloe americanus). It is easily recognized by the short wings. The little guy will secrete a toxic oil if stressed. They are in the blister beetle family so refrain from picking it up. The oil cantharidin can cause death in horses if they ingest the beetles. Montana State University says it takes 50 beetles. The cantharidin is classified it as an extremely hazardous substance. Yikes! However, I still stand by it is a great beetle. All part of the ecosystem, eh!
And the call of the wild! The Sandhill Cranes were calling today! Several people reported hearing and seeing them today.
Plus we gotten some much needed rain! So far we have 1.65″ (6:21pm) in our rain bucket. However, I won’t mention that we got small amount hail because the rain was totally welcome.
Thanks Jeanne for sharing your finds and great photos today!
The Beaufort Botanist and Her “Innocent Diversion”
Keep looking!
The more you know, the more you see and the more you see, the more you know
Thats the coolest beetle yet. Ive never seen one that i can remember. And thanks Jeanne for your great pics.
Yes, thanks Jeanne!
Cool finds for both you and Jeanne! I saw sandhills overhead on Tuesday while working in my garden. I love hearing that sound.
It is beautiful music!
Congrats on eggs Jeanne!