Today I took a look at my Aphid Tree (weeping birch), to decide whether to bypass the soapy spray again (haven't ever sprayed this tree, and it manages to survive) this year, to deter the aphids. I was surprised on inspection to find not only Lady Beetles, a huge amount of larvae, but some flies, bees, and wasps, appearing to feed on the aphids. Of course I expect the Lady Beetles and Larvae, have had lots of them, but was surprised to see the other insects, and so many of them. Some of the bees appeared to be honey bees, which are all over my flowering plants at this time anyway.
Any information on what insects, whether these or others that are not well known, would be appreciated.
I am not going to treat the tree, and hesitate to even treat it in winter because of the Lady Beetle Larvae and eggs.
On nesters, my Robins seem to have fledged already, with three babies, and the Chestnutback Chickadees should be almost done by now. Haven't seen the eaglets, but I know they are there, both parents are feeding them, I can see that activity at least. The Sapsucker has been chasing crows out of the neighbors area, and seems to be on patrol. The Bald Eagles cruise over our yards ever so slowly, and I fear for my neighbors Maltese; she lets it run too much....oh well, I did warn her twice now. That is all I can do.
Vicki Biltz Bonney Lake Wa 98391 vickibiltz at msn.com<mailto:vickibiltz at msn.com>