June 24 – My Nature Journal
June 24, 2026 Nature Journal
Green Frog
Lithobates clamitans
Slaty Skimmer Dragonfly
Libellula incesta
Slaty Skimmer dragonflies are one of my favorite dragonfly species. In part, this is because they are very common, so I can almost always count on seeing one in my travels. But I also really appreciate these dragonflies because they are so beautiful.
Many field guides describe their bodies as black. In my experience, these insects look black only at first glance.
Like all dragonflies, Slaty Skimmers fly during the day, so are easy to see in full sunlight. When highlighted by bright sunshine, they do indeed appear black. But if you take time to really look at them (and if the light is subtle enough), they reveal themselves to be a deep, saturated blue.
Today’s Nature Journal Snapshot
|
Time of Day |
Early afternoon |
|
Setting |
Along a forest stream |
|
Temperature |
80° F / 27° C |
|
Weather |
Sunny |
|
Humidity |
40% |
June 24, 2025 Nature Journal
Cicada
Family Cicadidae
This newly emerged cicada was very delicate. It hung motionless for several minutes while its wing veins and exoskeleton hardened and its color darkened.
Eventually, it spread its wings and flew up into the tree canopy, where it joined thousands of other cicadas to sing a deafening mating chorus that will last all summer long.
Today’s Nature Journal Snapshot
|
Time of Day |
Early morning |
|
Setting |
Suburban neighborhood |
|
Temperature |
90° F / 32° C |
|
Weather |
Sunny with some clouds |
|
Humidity |
65% |
2023-06-24 Nature Journal
Grapevine Beetle
Pelidnota punctata
Northern Cardinal
Cardinalis cardinalis
Red-shouldered Hawk
Buteo lineatus
Today’s Nature Journal Snapshot
|
Time of Day |
Around noon-time |
|
Setting |
Along a forest stream |
|
Temperature |
85° F / 29° C |
|
Weather |
Sunny |
|
Humidity |
59% |
