We saw a Luna Moth on the side of the trail at Blue Run Park. Someone had spotted it and was standing next to it when we hurried along to see. I knew it was a Luna Moth when I saw it. But I was surprised to learn some interesting facts about it when I did an online search.
Luna Moths are not rare but are rarely seen by humans. They are nocturnal. And they only live in their adult form for 7 to 10 days. The adults have vestigial mouthparts and no digestive system. The don't eat at all during this one week of life. They use energy stored up as caterpillars. Isn't that amazing?
And how neat to get to see one up close. It's considered a mega-moth and was as big as my hand outstretched.
Right now Florida would be considered 'buggy' and we are seeing lots of dragonflies!
They are real beauties too.
My husband took the photos below and they really stood out, almost looking 3D!
(these were taken at Felburn Park on the Gulf Coast)
Another mosaic, a water lily with an insect on it and blue dragonflies.
Lion's Ear
I found a whole bed of these Lion's ear plants near the Pruitt trailhead, Halpata Tastanaki Preserve.
I found the ID HERE.
We looked straight up above this trail at Blue Run Park and saw this beautiful spider web.
We can always marvel at nature's beauty if we just take the time to observe!
