Goldenrod to Taste

The last and brightest floral display at Halibut Point comes from goldenrods. In a year of good rains and warm temperatures such as the we've had, this genus produces a considerable amount of nectar for its exchange of favors with insects: pollination for food. To many insects it's the last great banquet to prepare them for migration, hibernation, renewal and death.

Goldenrods give naturalists an opportunity to see certain insects at close range for a moment. These photographs were taken in the last week of September. Chris Leahy has been very helpful with identifications.

American copper butterfly, wings tattered by its short lifetime of exertions.

A Noctuid moth, of which there are many species of similar appearance

Snout moth, wings furled

Painted lady butterflies

A time-worn Painted lady

Bluebottle fly

Eurasian honey bee



Carpenter bee



European paper wasp

Common paper wasp