August in New Ipswich

New Ipswich, NH  is a beautiful town surrounded with natural beauty. Over the years I know what to expect at different times of the year. In August I expect to see Joe Pye weed blooming by the roadside. Jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) also makes an appearance. It is also called spotted touch-me-not, a reference to the seed pods which explode when touched, something I'll try to photograph this year.

https://flic.kr/p/2oVeuSe Jewelweed blossom

Gooseneck Loosestrife (Lysimachia clethroides) is another flower that makes its appearance in August.  As soon as I see that I keep my eyes open to spot the Blue Mud Wasps that frequent the flowers. These are scary wasps but they rarely bother humans. They are notable as predators of black widows.

https://flic.kr/p/2oV9Em9 Chalybion californicum

The hummingbirds are a lot more active in Autumn as they bulk up for their migration. I've been trying all year to get some photos of them. One buzzed my face following me as I moved my head. That would have been the photo but I wasn't quick enough.

https://flic.kr/p/2oVaHLz Female hummingbirdhttps://flic.kr/p/2oVg2Ko Eyes closed, a female hummingbird dines on a Cuphea blossom

When the butterfly bush blooms in August, I start looking for not only butterflies but hummingbird hawk-moths which are insects not birds. They are weird insects with wings that are almost invisible.

https://flic.kr/p/2oVg2JS Hummingbird Hawk-Moth

There will be a lot to see in the coming weeks. The asters will be making an appearance as well as birds dining on seed heads. We are heading into my favorite season.