Insects in August

In August, many hikers visit the Crossroads Prairie Planting to revel in the riot of color created by the summer wild flowers or to marvel at the tall grass. But on cool mornings, or for that matter, any time of the day,  it’s also fun to watch the insects.
Early in the day,  butterflies perch on the prairie flowers to bask in the sunlight. Because they are cold-blooded, butterflies can’t fly unless the outdoor temperature is above 55 degrees F and even that really is too cold for them. So they sunbathe, wings extended, to raise their body temperatures. Many butterflies have black markings on their wings. These dark spots presumably help absorb heat.
The same seems to be true of dragonflies. Dragonflies have specail air sacs which help insulate their flight muscles, but even so, they also need to sunbathe. These insects  somehow know to position themselves parallel to dark branches on trees and shrubs so they can benefit from the heat absorbed by the plants. Dark markings on their bodies and wings are thought to aid in heat absorption. If dragonflies are really chilly, they shiver and vibrate their wings to warm up their flight muscles.
But what about hot days? Butterflies have to retreat to shade when their body temperatures exceed 108 degrees F.   When overheated, dragonflies find a nice cool leaf and point their rear ends directly at the sun. This way, they collect as few rays as possible, and presumably will cool down enough to hunt for their prey or for mates. And because dragonflies prey on mosquitoes and other flying insects, we like to see them airborne.
Actually, the mosquitoes are far less plentiful in August, so visits  to the prairie and meadows are pleasant. Consequently, our family programs, offered Monday-Thursday at 1:30 will focus on insects, birds and  prairie wildflowers. Learners of all ages are welcome at these programs, but you need not wait for a scheduled program. Our trails are free and open to the public.
The annual Perseid meteor shower will occur this week as the Earth passes through the debris from Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle. Traditionally, Newport State Park hosts a Perseid Shower Night at the predicted peak, so the Door Peninsula Astronomical Society will open the Stargarden for visitors the next night, Tuesday, August 13 beginning at 9:00.   If skies are clear, we may have a spectacular show; and if not, members of the DPAS will be on hand to guide visitors through the more predictable beauty of the cosmos.
Crossroads is donor-supported learning preserve dedicated to life long learning in science, history and the environment. The Collins Learning Center, located at 2041 Michigan in Sturgeon Bay, is open 1:30-3:30 daily and during scheduled events. The Astronomy Campus is reached by the Utah Street Entrance (at the Cove Road intersection.)
Tuesday, August 13, 9:00 PM  Perseid Meteor Shower Viewing
If skies are clear, visitors are invited to join the members of the Door Peninsula Astronomical Society in viewing the Perseid meteor shower from the StarGarden near the Leif Everson Observatory.
Please use the Utah Street Entrance to reach the Astronomy Campus.
Wednesday, August 14, 8:00 Buckthorn Party
Volunteers are invited to help control the buckthorn in the Crossroads preserve. We can provide equipment, but wear clothing which may be soiled, sturdy shoes, and bring work gloves if you have them.  Meet at the Collins Learning Center.
1:30 Family Program: Insect Safari
Learners of all ages are welcome to join this capture/release program to learn about the insects of the fields and prairie. Free and open to the public.
Thursday, August 15, 1:30 Family Program:  Bird Friendly Back Yard
Summer educator Joan Wilkie will show you how you can create a bird haven with a few clever gardening tricks. Free and open to the public.
Monday, August 19, 1:30 Butterflies in the Garden
Crossroad’s Heritage Garden is for growing produce, but we encourage insect pollinators by planting flowers. Join the naturalist in enjoying the flowers and the butterflies and other insect that visit. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Heritage Garden gate.
Tuesday, August 20,   8:00 Buckthorn Party

Volunteers are invited to help control the buckthorn in the Crossroads preserve. We can provide equipment, but wear clothing which may be soiled and sturdy shoes. Meet at the Collins Learning Center.
1:30 Butterflies in the Prairie
The Crossroads Prairie is a magnet for butterflies and the people who love them. Meet at the Collins Learning Center. Free and open to the public.
Wednesday, August 21, 1:30 Family Program: Bird Friendly Back Yard

Summer educator Joan Wilkie will show you how you can create a bird haven with a few clever gardening tricks. Free and open to the public.
Thursday, August 22, 1:30 Family Program: Fossils of Door County
Hands on activities will help participants recognize fossils. An optional fossil hunt will follow the program.  Free. Meet in the Collins Learning Center.

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