Umber Skipper Butterfly – Poanes melane

Umber Skipper butterfly (Poanes melane) - perched on Purple sageJuly is butterfly month in SouthernCalifornia, and this is a good year.  Weare fortunate in our bounty; over 20 butterfly species routinely visit localhome gardens.  For more on attracting these‘jewels of summer’ see: http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2012/06/butterfly-gardens.htmlCommon to...

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Why Gardens Matter (in Times of Drought)

Manyof us are looking inward in 2016, reflecting on our motivations, actions andresponsibilities to others.  These areimportant steps; somehow, we must work together to solve the challenges of our interconnectedworld.   Harmony, cooperation, thoughtfulness andpositive actions are needed in times like this.Timesof change also remind us of our sacred role as land...

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Insect Postings - Mother Nature's Backyard Blog

Southern California gardens are home to a number of interesting insects, from butterflies and bees to tiny wasps.  We try to feature these insects on our blog.  Below are the insects we've blogged about as of August, 2018. Scientific Name Common Name Date URL Agapostemon (genus) Metallic Green Bees 09/2012 http://mother-natures-backyard.blogspot.com/2012/09/metallic-green-bees-genus-agapostemon.html...

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