Tiny Shell of a Grasshopper...

Had a most excellent outing with my naturalist group today, one of our last of the season.  We saw some migrant shorebirds but the real stars today were butterflies, dragon/damselflies and other insects.  For me, this perfectly intact excuvaie was the super find of the day.  Like most insects, grasshoppers shed their skin as they grow.  I've never found one, and certainly not one in such perfect condition as this one.  I just wish I'd been able to see the 'hopper coming out of his shell.  

Thanks to Loisbiz for hosting TinyTuesday this month!

I released 12 monarchs today - 4 males and 8 females.  I was able to photograph several of the females.  If you'd like to see some of the photos, you can view my public album Monarch Chronicles 2017 on Facebook.  Although I try to photograph each butterfly, it is impossible to get the ones who are anxious to be on their way.  Today, none of the males would cooperate, all taking off immediately.  Slightly better luck with the girls.  

And, as always, each butterfly has been sent on its way in memory of someone who has left this world.  And I still have lots of room on my list of people to remember and honor, so let me know if there is someone you'd like to remember this way.

Three more photos from today starting HERE on Flickr - butterfly and bee, a most curious caterpillar and an American toad trying to go incognito.  

Thunder storms moving in - time to shut down the computer!

xo
Debbi