April 16

Lacewings

I’ve been working in my gardens spreading mulch and almost walked by this lacewing because I thought it was a seed.


When my camera zoomed in on this “tiny perfect thing,” I was surprised at the complexity. Just look at those compound eyes and the patterns on its body and lacy wings.

“The beauty of the natural world lies in the details.”  (Natalie Angier)

Are lacewings a welcome visitor in gardens? Yes! They are even released as a natural means of eliminating unwanted pests. Go here to view full screen.

Check out this new book about a grandfather searching for insects with his grandchildren: