Goldenrod days at Charles River Peninsula

Swamp Milkweed Beetle, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

The goldenrod is in full bloom and the insects are taking full advantage. And I can't resist a macro bug shot.

Goldenrod Leaf Beetle (maybe), Charles River Peninsula, MA

The beetle above looks like the farmer's nemesis, the striped cucumber beetle, but the spots on the area between the wings and the head suggest otherwise. This is one of the "Triirhabda" species, which are difficult to identify precisely. Their black wormy larvae can be seen munching on goldenrod leaves earlier in the season.

Anchor Stink Bug, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

Then there's this delightfully decorated insect, a beneficial variety of stink bug. It was quite fearful of me but never took flight. And I got a lot of shots of it running away.

Check out the polka dots on its side.

I will admit a terrible weakness for macro shots of tiny bees and flies

Other wildflowers in bloom include the lovely groundnut.

Groundnut blossom, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

Groundnut blossom, Charles River Peninsula, Needham, MA

The groundnut is a native vine known more for its delicious root than its impressive blossom clusters.

And some berries are beginning to ripen, to the pleasure of the cedar waxwings.

 You can hear the waxwings at the CRP, including youngsters (barely visible in the shot below)

happily buzzing away.