Apparently they Stink

Checking out the lavender today in the workplace garden - the sun wasn't out at the time so the small skippers were absent for a change - I noticed a very well camouflaged little shield bug, possibly some sort of later instar stage, sitting quietly in the blooms.

A friend later told me that these characters are known as stink bugs. "Why?" I asked. "I never knew they had a reputation!"

"Have you ever picked one up then smelled your fingers?" was the reply.

Well I haven't, but a quick google reveals that in the USA they are known as stink bugs rather than shield  bugs, and can be regarded as an agricultural pest.

And this one looked so innocent!

There were some other goodies  out today, and I tried to capture them as well as I could.

Si

All text and images copyright CreamCrackeredNature 12.07.18

The Herb Garden in Winter

Presumably because it got planted so late, our little workplace herb garden is still flowering with lavender and some sort of sagey bloom blooming. There's even a weed that has found its way in, with pretty little white flowers. Wonder what it is.

Obviously there are no bees visiting now and it's too cold for even the maddest of red admirals. The weather has now snapped colder again, with snow forecast but thankfully not on a work day, and I fancy there might be some good walking to be had of the weekend.

I might even try a gentle run. There can be no doubt that since my ankle injury I've put weight on, and I'm rather unhappy about that. The fact that food is one of the things that makes me happy doesn't help either. Either way, exercise bikes and walking don't seem to be cutting it.

I promise you, dear ankle, I'll be gentle.

Si

All text and images copyright CreamCrackeredNature 07.12.17