Bug Haven

I have been back to the amazing 'Bug Tree', a Desert Ash tree in our garden.

This is just a small section showing a ladybird, three stink bugs, an ant, and an unknown bug. For those who missed the original story of the Bug Tree, see here

 

Unfortunately I haven't been able to take many good pics because all the insects are in the shade and it's hard to hold the camera steady enough to take close up pics. I used flash for this shot.

 

First thing in the morning, when it was slightly cooler, there was not a bug to be seen, but later in the afternoon the tree was again covered in a great variety of insects.

 

I suspect they are seeking relief from the heat. It's so hot and dry that many of the plants in our garden have died. Those that are still struggling for life are shrivelled up or burnt by the sun. The camelia's leaves are burnt brown. Even the agapanthus, which usually withstand everything, have turned dry and yellow. Everything is hot to the touch, so I'm guessing these insects have found the tree trunk is the coolest place. They just sit there unmoving for hours (I keep going to check on them!)

 

The strange thing is that I haven't found any other trees covered in bugs like this.

 

There is another Desert Ash tree on our property. It has rougher bark and was providing refuge to about 10 katydids and a lot of stink bugs. An alder tree housed one particular type of stink bug.

 

I haven't been able to find any other trees with anything like the variety and number of insects as this one.

 

Added Note: This afternoon it was considerably cooler and there wasn't an insect to be seen on the tree... so it looks like it was the heat that made them congregate there.

Done