Roadside Observations

Last year while running errands, we noticed an interesting spot on the side of the road full of blooming Solidagos. Not much more than an access point for construction vehicles and a turnaround for folks who got lost, the area was disturbed but also had a surprisingly small number of obvious invasive species. Given that the larger area is full of mimosa and privets, it seemed like a good spot to do some semi-regular visits to.

Yesterday's visit was particularly fruitful, as the bees and butterflies were out in full force. They were mostly enjoying the Slender Vervain (sadly not native), but we did catch some great observations of several unique pollinator species, including one I hadn't seen before (Megachile sculpturalis).

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/229098187
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/229097447
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/229093343

I look forward to continuing to monitor as the Solidago begins to bloom later this year (and less excitingly for my allergies, the Ambrosia)!

Posted on Ιούλιος 14, 2024 1007 ΜΜ by abenesh