And here we are … 2022.

The annual African Caper White (e)migration is under way, and while by no means a record year as before there are still plenty of butterflies passing through the Ark’s spot as they make their way north and then turn right and head out towards Moçambique  where they most likely die and fall into the sea.

”Look what the cat dragged in.”

Death’s Head Hawkmoth Caterpillar.

Now safely ensconced among some potato leaves in a container on my desk. Soon it will burrow in the dirt and start the pupating process – around six weeks.

Expect photos in the not too distant future!

And another ‘gift’ presented to us by one of the cats.

Uninjured but no doubt suffering from shock the mouse is recovering in an old hamster cage. It has taken water but we can’t tell if it has eaten anything yet. It will be released back into the garden at a date to be determined … by Emily. I am not holding my breath.

I only noticed this because of a wasp nearby on the same branch. No idea what this is but its camouflage is superb!

 

Baby Bark Mantis spotted on the Nectarine tree this afternoon. Cute as a button. Hope it gets lucky and avoids all the inevitable predatory attention!

And finally …..For Nan!

 

How can you not smile at this?  A devoted mother and her recently hatched babies!

Because of where she has constructed / positioned her nest a decent angle for photographs is pretty much impossible and all attempts to get closer have seen her scurry away.

The third shot I simply held the camera aloft and clicked away.

We are keeping a very watchful eye on this young mum, especially to ward off any attentions from the parasitic Pompilid Wasp.

 

Ark.