A weekend stroll

This weekend my husband had some work to do in the lab, so I went with him and wandered about outside in the brilliant sunshine. I took some pictures along the way, and wanted to share them with you. 

Enjoy!
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A cluster of 'Crown vetch', or Securigera varia, flowers

A red clover, or Trifolium pratense inflorescence, with top blooms illuminated by sunshine. Recently, I lamented to myself that although I have taken many pictures of flowers, I have rarely taken the opportunity to photograph other creatures on my long walks. That changed this weekend, when it seemed there were all kinds of insect and arachnid activities afoot! For instance, check out the awaiting predator in the lower right corner of this seemingly innocent red clover!   

Coming across a bunch of withered asters (genus Erigeron, perhaps?), I was startled and amazed by the sight of a well-camouflaged spider making a meal of what had been an unsuspecting bee or wasp. Although the feeding spider didn't seem to mind having his (or her?) mealtime photographed, I kept my distance!  

Another aster flower with the inhabitants involved in the continuing of life, a stark contrast to the previous picture. 

At last, I will switch from all the arthropod drama by showing you a daisy (Bellis perennis?), brilliantly lit by the afternoon sun.   

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I hope you enjoyed these pictures, and that you have a great week! Entomologists and arachnologists, if you know the names of the species in the above photos, please let me know- I will credit you for the information! :) For a useful resource identifying many common North American wildflowers, please click here.  

May all beings be happy (even though we know that some beings do get eaten by spiders)!