My Dad called them Warblers. “Don’t shoot anything that has bumps on it. Warblers have spoiled the meat.” he instructed. He was referring to any game that I might bring home. Rabbits, squirrels and deer had to be studied before I harvested any animal to supplement our family meals. I never forgot his words, but learned about this menace.
The Daily Bucket is a nature refuge.
We amicably discuss animals, weather, climate, soil, plants, waters and note life’s patterns.
We invite you to note what you are seeing around you in your own part of the world, and to share your observations in the comments below.
|
This squirrel was in one of my trees this morning. He has a few swollen areas above his shoulders.
I suspect this is Bot Fly infestation. Here is a closeup showing the larva beginning emergence.
The fly below lays eggs on the fur of the animal. When the eggs hatch, the larva burrows it’s way into the hair follicle and begins feeding on the animal. Eventually, the larva begins to emerge through the same hair follicle pore and writhe its way out. You can see where the squirrel has scratched the fur away from the infected area. It must itch like crazy.
My Dad was used to seeing the fly in the title photo. I believe he knew what bot flies were but lumped the insects into one group. Here is the information on the Warble fly. Further reading will explain how it is possible for toxins of the warble fly to attach to the spinal cord of an animal and cause paralysis. Ranchers and Vets have dealt with these things for centuries.
There are some awful and graphic videos of both insects infecting horses, cattle and people. I am not comfortable showing them and warn the risk of vile disgust upon viewing. They are in nature however, and worth getting the information out.
I’d rather show you this puffball. A more appealing bump.
Let’s shake off the “heebie jeebies” and take a look at the nicer side of Nature.
"SPOTLIGHT ON GREEN NEWS & VIEWS"
EVERY SATURDAY AT 3:00 PM PACIFIC TIME ON THE DAILY KOS FRONT PAGE.
IT'S A GREAT WAY TO CATCH UP ON DIARIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED. BE SURE TO RECOMMEND AND COMMENT IN THE DIARY.
|
My bug of the day is a child’s favorite. Rollie Pollie, Pill bug, Ball bug and many other names have been given to the only crustacean that lives it’s entire life on land. I love it when I see one scampering on it’s many legs. I am taken back to my childhood every time I encounter one.
How about you? Any thing of interest in your world today?