Monday, July 24, 2006

Digger wasps

That is a type of digger wasp called Sceliphron spirifex. Although it makes clay vases for its larvae, it is still a digger and not a potter wasp (different families). The vases contained larvae and a host, which is eaten by the developing larvae. Digger wasps are solitary, not colonial. The emergence of many pots may perhaps give the impression of a colony. Also, if a wall or roof is particularly suitable for them, I suppose that it is not inconceivable for a few females to make nests there.

Thanks to Keith Bensusan from GONHS for this info.


This one seems to have a rear leg missing?
I have a whole colony of these in my garden!

Monday, July 17, 2006

Governor departs Gibraltar

Speeding ahead. HMS Monmouth departs Gibraltar harbour.
Water display by Capable as HE departs Gibraltar.
Lady Richards and Sir Francis on the bridge of HMS Monmouth.

Sunday, July 16, 2006

Breaking News, HMS Illustrious leave for the Lebanon

From hotel for the Governor to evacuation ship. What a difference a day makes.

Trinity lighthouse watching over HMS Illustrious as she departs Gibraltar for the Lebanon.
Heading for Lebanon. HMS Illustrious.

Saturday, July 15, 2006

HMS Illustrious in Gibraltar

Merlin helicopters represent the latest in military technology in the field. So much so that they have been purchased by the US to serve as the President's Marine One helicopter fleet! HMS Illustrious, Gibraltar.
Sunset ceremony. HMS Illustrious, Gibraltar.
Governor of Gibraltar, Sir Francis Richards is met on board by the ship's captain.
Band of the Royal Gibraltar Regiment decends into the hanger deck for the beating of retreat ceremony. HMS Illustrious, Gibraltar.
Merlin Helicopter. HMS Illustrious. Gibraltar.
AEW Sea KIng Helicopter on Board HMS Illustrious. Gibraltar.
HMS Illustrious flies the flag for the RN