I took my inspiration for April’s ‘slice’ in my backyard phenology wheel from the honeybees visiting my garden. I noticed that the number of bees in my backyard had dwindled, but the act of pollination was active and the stars of the show were ‘skipper’ butterflies which have been visiting since February.
The Blue Wattle butterfly is absolutely gorgeous with its dusting of metallic blue near the abdoman and thorax. This was my inspiration for February’s slice in the wheel.
I love that Autumn calls the insects of this season into our backyards.
What a joy to capture such beautiful creatures as I play in my modest garden with my camera, paints and paper.
Neither my photography or painting skills are any where near perfect, but I’ve come to realise that it is the process of drawing and capturing creatures by camera that refreshes my soul as I gaze upon God’s wonders.
I’m aware that my children are watching me as I adore creation, get excited over much and take notice of little things and I’ve seen that they are stopping to look and watch too and what a joy it is to see them investigate nature on their own.
When days are rough for them in the future, I’d like them to remember to step outdoors and breathe – take time to wonder in awe, to be refreshed and maybe even remember with a phenology wheel.
I’m shading in my slices with Autumn colour, but you can keep them white if you prefer. My lines are soft allowing creatures and plants to flow into their neighbour’s spot.
There was so much white space outside of the wheel so I’ve added a Huntsman spider and Swallow I’ve noticed in our yard too. The wheel can be cut out and framed if you prefer.
Have you created your phenology wheel yet? Download your template here. What plants or creatures have you added to your slices?
Read Backyard Phenology Wheel | March
If you’d like to study nature, consider the Autumn/Winter Backyard Nature Study Guides and invite me to walk along side you as you explore wildlife in the backyard.
Investigate the secret habitat of leaf litter. Discover backyard visitors like the praying-mantis and echidna. Explore rocks, soil ecosystems and the weather while observing migration and torpidity as the season changes. Prepare for a flush of spring flowers by planting autumn bulbs and enjoy autumn fruits by baking apple pies.
