With reference to yesterday's post about five observations made on campus, today I retraced my steps. The Oak Treehoppers were still occupying the end of the same branch of California Black Oak. When I first approached, I thought I might be seeing an invading predator with white wings. Only upon zooming in with the camera did I realize it was one of the adult treehoppers. In the past, I have seldom seen them move, and when I did disturb them enough to move, it was never obvious to me whether they hopped or flew. They just disappeared quickly like fleas. I have no idea why this one sat still with its wings spread for two or three minutes. I had to move on.
The Orange Peel Fungus remained undisturbed. That did not surprise me as it's in a well-hidden, shady spot. For scale I included a dime, then a penny, then, like a good naturalist, I had to get a photo without a man-made object intruding. I'm a little embarrassed to say I like the one with the penny best. In a few weeks there should be more of these and some will grow to 2 inches or more in diameter.
Then, growing conveniently just outside our Nature Literature classroom was this beautiful Amanita. It's out in the open, so I'll admit I am amazed and relieved that it's still there. Is it too much to hope that it will remain undisturbed until tomorrow's class? At least I have photos.
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