The natural environment and history of Kalispell’s West Valley area
by Skip Via
skip@westvalleynaturalists.org
A few days ago I noticed dozens of what I thought were bees on some flowering peppermint plants near my deck. On closer inspection, it turns out that they weren’t bees at all, but rather drone-flies. Curiosity peaked, I did a bit of research.
by Pat Jaquith
pat@westvalleynaturalists.org
As I write this on a rainy day in March, my mind is drawn to thoughts of spring, perhaps because just yesterday I was walking partly in mud, partly on ice, torn between the need for rubber boots or ice cleats. In a similar vein, in summer as I observe flowers and the insects that are drawn to them, I wonder whether I should beware of the stinger or relax and admire the industrious work of the flying creatures. In this article, I’ll share some helpful tips I have learned from researching that question.
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