Butterflies at Hargus Lake

The other day I was at A.W. Marion State Park in Pickaway County. Known as Hargus Lake by the locals because of the man-made lake that is the center of the park, the park offers a 5 mile lake perimeter trail, a half mile trail through a second growth forest, and a few other smaller trails and paths.

I came for the butterflies.

Subject number 1, and the prize of the day. A minuscule Dainty Sulphur. A butterfly that's generally rare in Ohio, this guy was just barely noticeable among the pebbles of the dog beach area. This year has been an invasion year for Dainty's in Ohio. There have been large numbers reported in many counties all across Ohio. This Dainty, like them all, was incredibly tiny, and I almost overlooked it.

These guys, Common Buckeyes, were definitely among the most common. There were dozens flying around. They aren't residents in Ohio, but instead migrate northward during the summer. This year I've seen a lot, and other years Buckeyes have been known to be absent from Ohio.

These two mating butterflies are Eastern Tailed Blues. They are another very tiny butterfly. Very beautiful in a subtle way. They are one of Ohio's most common butterflies, but tend to be overlooked by people who aren't looking for butterflies because of their size and non-in-your-face colors, like a Zebra Swallowtail. These two were flitting about and it was really hard to get a shot. Eastern Tailed Blues are found in Ohio from April to October, so they're on their last leg at the moment. If you look closely, you can see where they get the name "Tailed." They have tiny projections on each of their hindwings.  

There were a few others present at the park on the day I went. These included many Silver Spotted Skippers, Monarchs, Pearl Crescents, and a Red-Spotted Blue. 

A New Blog

Hello, my name is Kyle Brooks. I am a teen (17) living in Central Ohio. I am enthralled by nature and the world around me.

So, in an effort to show people the world I see, the nature of Ohio (specifically Central Ohio), and maybe impart some of the little knowledge I have to others, and gain more knowledge from others themselves, I have created this blog, Ohio Nature.

With Ohio Nature, I plan to share photos and facts about the things I come across, and maybe some of the things my friends come across, all dealing with the natural world in Ohio.

About myself for those interested: I am an amateur photographer, so some of the photos I share might have more of an artistic air, while others will simply be to record an animal or insect. I am involved in many school clubs and events, and take AP classes, so my free time is limited; however, I will try posting regularly.

Thanks for taking the time to look at my blog! And welcome to all those who are interested!

-Kyle Brooks