Tag Archives: goldenrods

Urban Nature Walk: Savin Hill Beach

Jef led three of us on an urban nature walk around a very urban beach. Savin Hill Beach in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston is bordered by Interstate 93 and William Morrissey Boulevard. We were surprised at the diversity of water birds we found, including a few I hadn’t previously seen in the Boston area.

Savin Hill Beach in Dorchester
Savin Hill Beach in Dorchester

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Arboretum: Giant Water Bugs and Biocontrol Beetles

Exploring in the meadow of the Arnold Arboretum last weekend, I came upon this giant water bug (Belostoma sp.). This large insect — they named it “giant” for a reason — preys on creatures as large as small fish. It can inflict a very painful bite, and so is also called toe biter. Thanks to John Epler for the ID.

Giant water bug
Giant water bug

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