Peony Perfume attracts many species

A true sign of spring is the appearance of the first Peony Buds. With these buds usually comes the ever present black ants and many other species, each taking advantage of the irresistible perfume of the peony flower. Today I spotted not only the black ants, but red ants, house flies, ladybugs and paper wasps. All vying for a bud to sample. I read somewhere that the relationship between the peony bud and the black ant is a symbiotic one. The flower buds release a sticky sweet substance that the ants find intoxicating. They come to the buds in droves, seeking this delicious substance. The ants crawl all over the buds which many stimulate them to open. A true working relationship with benefits to both.

Topsy Turvy

I guess these bugs never had a momma to tell them it is rude to stand on your head while you eat. These quirky little insects went heads down for their food, either that or they are practicing for the next Insect Olympics. Insect gymnastics, the new national sport, you have to admire their technique.

Asian Invasion

The Multi-Colored Asian Ladybird Beetle (a big name for such a little beetle). What these little beetles lack in size they more than make up for in sheer numbers. In the 1800's some enterprising citizens brought these beetles over from Asia to help control Aphid populations in green houses and nurseries. This plan worked well until some of these lovely little ladybugs escaped their confinements and set out for greener pastures. The habitats they encountered suited them quite nicely and they have taken to their new home with a vengence. In fact it is near to impossible to find a native species these days. These ladybugs come in many different shades of red, orange and reddish-orange. In the west there are some that are black. They have a tendancy to bite and give off a musky odor. Nothing like our sweet native ladybird beetles. In the fall it is common to see these ladybugs in large numbers in warm sunny areas. Presumably they are congregating in massive numbers to hibernate the long cold winter months in groups. Look for them in February and March as they come out of hiding on warmer days. They have become a symbol of fall for me, and even though they are not native and they are usurping our own lovely ladies I still can't help but carry a fondness for them in my heart.