Protecting Biodiversity Archives | Transition Town Media

The Fascinating Great Black Wasp

Posted on October 4, 2021

by Marion Yaglinski

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The first time I saw a great black wasp on my mountain mint, I was mesmerized by its shiny black body and iridescent black/purple wings glowing in the sunlight. The photo above does not capture the beauty of this insect. You really have to see it in person. But don’t worry, they are not aggressive to humans. Great black wasps (Sphex pensylvanicus) part…

Swamp Milkweed: Monarch Favorite

Posted on September 6, 2021

by Marion Yaglinski

The milkweeds—swamp milkweed, common milkweed and butterfly weed—are excellent additions to the native plant garden. But in my opinion, swamp milkweed is the star of the milkweed show. Swamp milkweed (Asclepias incarnata) is a favorite nectar plant of many bees and butterflies. It’s a perfect choice for borders, stream or pond banks, moist areas, and butterfly gardens. How It Grows…

Cicada Killer Wasps: Scary-looking but Beneficial

Posted on August 23, 2021

by Kelsey

They awaken each summer. From hidden burrows in the ground, they emerge to seek their prey. Each day the hunters tirelessly prowl their territories, pouncing without warning. They subdue each hapless victim before dragging them into dark tunnels, to feed the next generation… Who are these mysterious creatures? They are the cicada killer wasps, and despite their fearsome appearance, they’re…

If You Plant It, They Will Come

Posted on August 9, 2021

by Marion Yaglinski

It’s true–if you plant it they will definitely come. What will come? Hummingbirds! In addition to delighting you, they will be a great learning opportunity for your kids. Here’s a list to get you started: Hummingbird Favorites Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) Black and Blue Salvia (Salvia guaranitica) (not a native, but my hummingbirds love it) Cardinal flower (Lobelia cardinalis) Beebalm (Monarda didyma) Beardtongue…

Are Deer Eating Your Native Plants?

Posted on July 5, 2021

by Marion

The bane of every gardener is a herd of deer bent on eating your prize native plants. It’s so discouraging to have all that labor and money you invested eaten overnight! How can you outsmart Bambi and protect your garden? Read on, friends. Yes, I know, deer are beautiful creatures and fawns are adorable, but they are also very destructive. Deer can devastate not…

The Fascinating Great Black Wasp

Swamp Milkweed: Monarch Favorite

Cicada Killer Wasps: Scary-looking but Beneficial

If You Plant It, They Will Come

Are Deer Eating Your Native Plants?

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