Sawfly Larvae

Thank you to Don Herbison-Evans for identifying these for me: http://lepidoptera.butterflyhouse.com.au/none/sawfly.html

Out to Impress

SULPHUR-CRESTED COCKATOO COURTSHIP

Eastern Snake-necked Turtle (Chelodina Longicollis)

We don’t why, but this is the second time an Eastern Snake-necked Turtle has laid – or tried to lay – her eggs in the rock-hard clay driveway next to the house.

“Nests are constructed in clay soils by exuding copious quantities of cloacal fluid…

Nests are constructed by drilling in the sand and earth using the feet, eventually creating a circular hole. Nesting occurs in spring or early summer (November or December). Females usually lay one clutch of eggs annually of between 6 and 23 eggs. The volume of C. longicollis eggs is between 4.0 to 6.7 ml. The eggs are an ellipsoidal spheroid shape. Incubation time is approximately 3 to 4 months after which the embryos cut out of the shell using a nasal ‘tooth’.” – James Cook University

At the top of third photo, you’ll see car tyres on concrete – that’s the carport. That’s how close to the house the turtle is laying her eggs.

Pollen-laden Honey Bee

Down by the Dam

Raindrops on Rosebuds...