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The season begins DSC_3948

Giant and Tiger Swallowtails have started returning to the backyard. The males always seem to show up first and they flit about furiously looking for a lady. This Giant beauty decided to take a break and fuel up so if a lady does drop in he will be ready to swoop her off her wings. Unless this is a lady that snuck in... I have a difficult time telling the giant boys from the girls unless the wings are open.

 

Daily butterflies at this time:

Monarchs 5 - 12

Gulf Fritillary 1 -5

Zebra longwing 1 -5

Goldrim 1 - 5

Sulfur 3 -15

Giant - 1

Tiger - 1

Skippers / Other 4 - 12 observed

 

Spring maintenance also begins... Wow, there are a lot of oak leaves to rake and set out at the curb for the yard waste guys. I used to use oak leaves as a natural mulch but mosquitos love that so I don't do it anymore. The yard waste guy probably don't appreciate me in the spring but I sure appreciate them.

 

Of course I have a lot more to maintain than just fallen leaves. It's time to cut everything that needs a trim. I keep saying I am going to hire someone to assist me but I never follow through with that. I'm afraid they will not be as careful as I am when it comes to inspecting items prior to cutting them. I don't want a chrysalis to get accidently tossed out. And I am accustomed to watching my step in the yard so I don't step on a caterpillar that is on a journey, but others might not watch their step. Apparently I'm a worrywart when it comes to the critters in my yard.

 

Company will soon be here and I want everything to be beautiful :) If I were a Genie I could blink my eyes and all would be perfect. Then again, I would not get to spend the time in the yard so that might not be a good thing :) I love my yard time. Perhaps I should recruit my company to carefully assist.

 

May your day be beautiful and your wishes come true. Happy snapping.

 

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Uploaded on February 20, 2018
Taken on February 19, 2018