My enjoyment of yard work has been tempered a bit by the realization that Deer Flies are back. They took over my hose reel a few years ago, to the point that I could no longer use it without one of them coming out after me. One bite sent me to the Urgent Care in Scotch Plains. They do not sting like bees or mosquitoes, they have sharp mouth parts that cut the skin to draw blood. Keep the smelling salts nearby before you look at this photo by Nature Photographer Patrick Zephyr!
To add insult to injury, the Deer Fly's saliva contains an anti-coagulant that can cause serious reactions in the human victim. Deer probably suffer even worse from multiple bites. The fly's saliva can also transmit diseases.
The triangular wings make the Chrysops flies look even more aggressive somehow. We had brown ones earlier, but now there are some of a golden color. View more Chrysops at BugGuide.Net and if you see any in the garden, watch out!
--Bernice
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Speaking of natures other creatures, I have been thinking of this since the execution of the “Bear in Plainfield”. When I heard that the bear was killed I was very upset and disappointed, but understood the cause and need. Being the animal lover that I am, we need to come up with a solution to situations such as these, terminating our animals should be a last resort, not the only resort. Since we no longer have an animal control agency in Plainfield, is it possible for a few of our police officers to be trained in various tranquilizer darts to use instead of real bullets? The tranquilizer darts could be stored at the police station and used as needed. I hope someone will take this seriously and consider this option.
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Hi Bernice -- sorry to make a comment in order to ask a question -- but not sure how to reach you otherwise.
ReplyDeleteDo you know what has happened to the construction on the apartment building opposite the Netherwood Train Station? It has been inactive now for almost 6 months?
From what I understand, the building deviated from what was approved and the developer had to go back and work it out with the Planning Board. You can call Planning at (908) 753-3391 to find out more.
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