Sometimes it is the unexpected encounters that tell beautiful stories, like when I recently discovered a distant elderberry bush on a walk. . At first glimpse, it was seemingly in full bloom. A good view. A beautiful view, presumably like is typical at this time of year. But something drew me to it, something so visceral that it seems more a feeling, than an observation.
I approached slowly, step after step, and I could feel something nice as I continued, and when I got closer to the bush, it became really obvious, that something special was happening. It wasn't only the joyful whirr and buzz of the bees in the air, I suddenly saw them, a whole cluster of shiny little dots on the white flowers. Now curiosity was in full view as I walked slowly, and ever so cautiously until I realized what remarkable little insects had gathered on those flowers.
Golden leaf beetles! The name tells it all, shells that change with each change of green and gold, like tiny jewels, basking in the sun resting on the petals of the flowers. I was half amazed by their voraciousness among the clusters of flowers, and half impressed that they all decided to meet in the same location.
While I was there watching, I noticed one detail that struck me, and reinforced my view of just how alive nature really is. On one of the flower clusters, I saw two beetles mating. What an intimate moment representing the midst of the chaos that all flowers are going through, how lucky was I to see this. This was a definitive sign that the time this year is also, the breeding time of year for the golden rose beetles, who not only get food on the flowing greenery of blossoms, but, also provision their young for the next generation.
The golden rose beetle (Cetonia aurata) is a very fascinating insect. It is always able to be found on many flowers, where it eats pollen and nectar. Its larvae are meaningfully powerful. They develop in rotting wood or compost meaning they can help decompose organic matter at the same time. Not only are they beautiful to gaze at, they also are so important in the ecosystem process.
One of those little discoveries that makes a walk unforgettable while revealing the wonders of nature against the backdrop. I was glad I had my camera with me on this visit to capture these lovely creatures. Thanks for stopping by, and have a wonderful day!🙃✌️
