When photographer Patrick Noyes walked along the edge of Warner Park’s lagoons with his Samsung Note 2 phone, his eye caught beauty and bugs galore.
Seen as “weeds” by some, this border of grasses and shrubs was allowed to grow by the Parks Department primarily to create a natural barrier to Canada geese, who fear walking where they cannot see predators. This, along with oiling of geese eggs by volunteers, has dramatically reduced the annoying geese droppings on sidewalks and mowed lawn.
But this growth is also a wonderful, wild addition to the flora and fauna of the park, attracting a myriad of bugs, bees and critters.
The flora barrier is also favored by fish for its shade and food.
If you can identify the bugs (including a mating pair) send us an email.
What have you seen in the meadow and wetland growth?
These mating bugs are Goldenrod Soldier Beetles. They are related to Fireflies and are popular with organic gardeners because they feed on nectar, help pollinate Goldenrod and other native prairie flowers, eat other insects and do not damage plants. (Paul Noeldner)
see http://wimastergardener.org/?q=GoldenrodSoldierBeetle. )
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