A pair of American White Pelicans were taking the scenic route down the side of the big pond.

Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
November 26, 2022
Daddy Long Legs spiders were climbing all over this small clump of spotted beebalm.
The dappled sun was warming after a cool start and prey possibilities including smaller insects may have become active, too.
I have no idea what this one is doing; I wondered if it was laying eggs but all information I’ve found says they lay their eggs in dirt.
Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 14, 2022
Monarda punctata
Spotted Beebalm, Spotted Horsemint, Horsemint
A number of butterflies, including this Long-tailed Skipper, were working a row of wildflowers at the edge of field at Botany Bay WMA. I do not know this flower, and spot metering on the insect left that bright white blown out.
Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 14, 2022
A few Monarchs were interspersed with the Gulf Fritillaries on the Wildflowers.
The Monarchs were more skittish and didn’t stay out in the open for long.
Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 14, 2022
A number of Gulf Fritillary butterflies were feeding in a stand of wildflowers at the edge of a field on a sunny October day.
Some were in perfect physical condition.
Others were exhibiting signs of some challenges.
Botany Bay Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 14, 2022
The Gulf Fritillary is a recurring fall subject on my blog–how could I pass up photographing this beauty, especially on such vibrant yellow flowers?
The underside of the wings are a completely different pattern.
Donnelley Wildlife Management Area, SC
October 16, 2022