Canatara Critters!

I believe this caterpillar will transform into either a Viceroy or Red-spotted Purple butterfly when it reaches adulthood. (Genus Limenitis) I love how the larva is masquerading as bird poop!

A Margined Blister Beetle surprised me in the meadow. It was about an inch long. If threatened or slapped (when it lands on your arm), it can release a chemical that causes a blister to human skin. Luckily it was interested in the plants and not me! 

Eastern Tailed-blue opening his wings to warm up in the morning.

Great Egret trying to camouflage in a birch tree.

I have recently noticed thousands of Water Striders on the surface of Lake Chipican. They have tiny hairs that repel water and capture air. By repelling water, the tiny 6-legged striders can stand on the water's surface and the captured air allows them to float and move easily. Scientists are studying water striders in hopes of making materials that more easily repel water and to help objects move faster over water. https://www.nwf.org/Educational-Resources/Wildlife-Guide/Invertebrates/Water-Striders

Some recent wet weather means we are seeing more mushrooms. 

Mushrooms play an important role in the circle of life. They feed on dead and 

dying material and return nutrients back to the soil for more plants to grow.

Another Red Screech Owl has been hanging out in the regular tree hole. The colouring appears to be different from others viewed in the tree, perhaps a new generation!