Observations on Thursday
This two-part entry includes one observation about pollination that struck me odd. I had a floral head (A) at Loeffler's corner and as Agopostamas texanus approached - it stopped - flew backwards and away - and visited others nearby (all Echinacea). Did the presence of ants on the head - around the anthers have anything to do with the "I'll just come back later" actions of the bee? Has anyone else observed a head NOT get visited even though it was ripe with pollen because of the presence of ants?
My second half is simply noting that a calico cat and two large kittens were at the end of the common garden yesterday as I left about 4PM. The mother slunk away and the gold/white kitten watched me while the other kitten mostly white/ some black was trying to consume a chipmunk! Are these cats known to inhabit the area?
Comments
Greg, that's an interesting observation about the ants. I have noticed "guarding" behavior by ants on Echinacea heads. I'd be curious if any other team members have observations.
As for the cat, I think we should have Roxy investigate.
Posted by: Stuart Wagenius | July 24, 2009 1:41 PM
Hey Greg,
I've seen insects appear to shy away from plants with ants on the head, too! It seems like something worth investigating.
Amanda
Posted by: Amanda Gallinat | July 24, 2009 5:56 PM
1. Yes, I noticed the same thing happen on a focal plant at Aanenson's and it's the reason why I added the part to our protocol about noting the presence of ants.
2. Can we keep these kittens at the Hjelm house for entertainment/cuteness and chipmunk-eating purposes?
Posted by: Mimi Jenkins | July 25, 2009 11:32 AM