Immature Paper Wasp

 

I remembered this picture after Marvin posted his a couple of weeks ago. This is an immature paper wasp, as can seen by its bright yellow head, eyes, and faint yellow markings on its abdomen. It's also munching up some aster flowers and nector, which will sustain it during its first winter. These little buggers aren't agressive, but I've accidentally grabbed a nest or two and received their wrath.

Scientific name:
Polistes annularis

Btw, I thank you all for taking my "break" in stride. Student teaching has been going well, but the weather prevents me from making definite plans for lessons. I'm helping teach English classes. When I'm certified, I'm hoping to teach some form of English and Journalism classes. Perhaps certified has two connotations there...

Deer Tracks in Snow

 

About a week ago, we had four inches of snow. During the night or early morning, some deer passed through this trail. This is probably a yearling or small doe as the track is carried from one foot up to the other without much lift. A larger buck has a shorter, stouter track unless the snow is quite deep. This also indicates the deer were walking swiftly as there is not much disturbance in the rest of the track's main shape.

Taking a Break....

I am writing to inform my loyal audience and friends that I am taking a break from my blog for awhile. This semester, I am student teaching. So, my responsibilities for the classroom are cutting into my blogging research time. However, I should be able to make Thursdays and Fridays. If you check back on those days, my blog will probably be updated.

Thanks for the patience!
Nate