Nature Art Photography And Oil Paintings - by Carolyn Hietala - ARTIST Richmond Virginia

Drinking in the sun ;0)

2010-10-22T11:00:00.010-05:00

Pollinating Wild Aster

Nature Butterfly Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Virginia unemployment rate statistics are displayed in gorgeous Fall colors

2010-10-14T06:40:00.023-05:00

These splendid Autumn colors via Mother Nature

These splendid Autumn colors http://www.bls.gov/ro3/valaus.htm via

The United States Department of Labor
Bureau of Labor Statistics

Which view do you prefer; via Nature or Government?
Nature Foliage Photograph by ARTIST Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Unlike so many Americans today..... this Paper Wasp has a JOB!!!!!!

2010-10-13T16:46:00.006-05:00

Insect on Wild Aster

Nature Pollination Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Fine Artist in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

tiny baby in hand..... neonate Northern Ring-necked Snake? No it's actually a Rough Earth Snake ;0)

2010-08-27T17:12:00.007-05:00

All Rights reserved. ©
Neonate Rough Earth Snake in my palm, camera in other hand ;0)
This newborn Virginia striatula was found under

dead leaves in my backyard as I was doing yardwork.

Image taken in Chesterfield County - Richmond, Virginia.

Reptile Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Elderberry In Magical Display..... image published ;0)

2010-06-24T16:18:00.008-05:00

June 2010 - Cottage Life Magazine

(Edible Berries)

Article - "Ripe For The Eating" by Lorraine Johnson

Nature Wild Berry Photograph by Carolyn Hietala - Oil Painter

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

rusty metal and predator

2010-06-16T20:14:00.008-05:00

Blue Dasher Dragonfly - Pachydiplax longipennis

Odonata - Male

Nature Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Pick One!

2010-06-16T09:10:00.006-05:00

Choose wisely.........for good luck ;0)

Four-leaf clovers can be found tucked away, dry and forgotten, within the pages of least read books everywhere. Hope comes in many forms I suppose. Personally I believe we create our own "good luck" by our actions. Recently I cut the grass but left several large circles of clover uncut..... for the good fortune of the pollinators, specifically the bee community of course.

Happy Lucky Bokeh Wednesday EVERYone!

Nature Green Planet Plant Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Bumblebee on lovely pink Bristly Locust Blossoms

2010-06-15T13:25:00.008-05:00

Nature Flower Pollination Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

yard bunny enjoying the clover

2010-06-15T07:20:00.008-05:00

The little critter now allows me to get a bit closer before bounding into the thick grasses. I can see small grass tunnels everywhere in the meadow ;0)

Native Young Wild Rabbit - Lagomorpha leporidae

Nature Mammal Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Damselfly Land is such a lovely place to be!

2010-06-14T08:52:00.007-05:00

All Rights reserved. ©

Fragile Forktail - Ischnura posita - Odonata
(I think it is a juvenile female, correct me if I'm wrong please)

A tiny precious backyard creature.

I adore their gentle spirit but they also are fierce hunters ;0)

Have a wonderful week everyone!

Nature Odonata Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Leaf-cutter Bee on Daisy Fleabane

2010-06-13T07:59:00.006-05:00

(Not sure of this id so please let me know if incorrect)

Daisy Fleabane - Erigeron annuus

Nature Insect Pollination Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Mosquito..... manufacturing misery ;0(

2010-06-11T14:11:00.010-05:00

Dump the water and grab the DEET!!!!!

Mosquito - Culicidae

(female engorged with eggs)

Nature Backyard Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Green Metallic Bee - Halictid bee - Agapostemon virescens

2010-06-11T09:04:00.010-05:00

Iridescent Little Bee On Blackberry Blossom

Sawtooth Blackberry - Rubus argutus

Nature Backyard Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

under shade of petals

2010-06-09T15:58:00.005-05:00

Life supports life........ we're all connected in some fashion.
(rose & fly & bee in monochromatic unity)

Faux Vintage

Nature Sepia Tone Blossom Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Free Wild Bird Food............ compliments of Mulberry Tree

2010-06-09T07:43:00.005-05:00

This Mulberry Tree is growing in leaps and bounds with the recent rainstorms. The birds are plucking off the fruit as soon as the mulberries ripen ;0(

Nature Berry Photograph by Carolyn Hietala
Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County
All my images are copyright protected with all rights reserved.

breezy bug love

2010-06-08T07:08:00.004-05:00

The wind was whipping and twirling these wildflowers so it was a miracle that I was able to get even one image that wasn't a total blur ;0)

Family Rhopalidae - Scentless Plant Bugs

Genus Harmostes

Species reflexulus (Harmostes reflexulus)

Happy Tuesday!

Nature Mating Insects Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

pretty is as pretty does.....

2010-06-07T10:24:00.004-05:00

All Rights reserved. ©

.....as my Grandmother used to say ;0)

Kindness is certainly a virtue that shines bright
and beautiful, it's always appreciated...............;0)

Graham Thomas English Rose
A gift for my kind and generous Flickr friends! Thanks.

Nature Flower Blossom Photograph by Carolyn Hietala
Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County
All my images are copyright protected with all rights reserved.

making a beautiful first impression

2010-06-07T06:18:00.005-05:00

Bristly Locust - Robinia hispida - small shrub or tree
Have a lovely week everyone ;0)

Nature Pink Flower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Blue Dasher Dragonfly..... female on Cudweed

2010-06-06T12:16:00.004-05:00

The rain barrel is but a few feet away ;0)
Blue Dasher Dragonfly - Pachydiplax longipennis
Odonata - Female

Nature Backyard Dragonfly Photograph by Carolyn Hietala
Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County
All my images are copyright protected with all rights reserved.

One of my mosquito images is published ;0)

2010-06-04T06:40:00.011-05:00

This is a very informative article titled "Fight the bite" by Katherine Houstoun in the Chesterfield Observer about those pesty Asian Tiger Mosquitos. If you are bothered by these insects in your yard you should certainly read it. Here is the online link http://www.chesterfieldobserver.com/news/2010-06-02/Front_Page/Fight_the_bite.html or pick up a newspaper copy for handy reference.

Nature Biting Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

you're my one and only......... sweet veronica

2010-06-03T09:29:00.009-05:00

Veronica polita or Grey Field-speedwell

Figwort - Scrophulariaceae

A delicate blue and white wildflower delight,

or just another weed in the lawn ;0)

Nature Native Flower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

backyard toad..... always underfoot

2010-06-01T06:36:00.004-05:00

By day this adult Eastern American Toad Frog (Bufo Americanus) can either be found under the deck, smothered in leaves or under the step leading out from the deck. The dark color on the lower body is evident that it was recently in darkness as they change color according to their environment..... from almost black to pale reddish brown or tan.

At night is when I have to make sure I don't step on the critter. Quite often it can be found on the deck, hopping about snatching up insects attracted by the indoor lights. ;0)

Nature Backyard Amphibian Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

always look before you leap............... Eastern Box Turtle

2010-05-31T13:29:00.008-05:00

I just love finding young turtles, they're

missing the "bumps of life."

Eastern Box Turtle - Terrapene carolina carolina

(the shell of this one was about 6 inches in length)

Backyard Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

nostalgic ant #2

2010-05-29T16:10:00.003-05:00

.....it's busy eating pollen off flowers.....

Treasured in faux vintage sepia tones..... muted and soft ;0)

Nature Backyard Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Asian Tiger Mosquito - Aedes albopictus..... known carrier of West Nile Virus

2010-05-28T08:22:00.011-05:00

Faux Vintage Photograph

(side view)

My model is visibly tiring ;0)

(for full color images of this little predator click on images)

Nature Backyard Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

smooth operator..... at first you don't feel a thing THEN.....

2010-05-26T07:25:00.008-05:00

OUCH!!!!!!

Biting Mosquito Image

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Nature Insect Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

a spot of gold

2010-05-24T13:41:00.006-05:00

Just like a little fly jewelry pin ;0)

Gold-backed Snipe Fly

Chrysopilus ornatus - male

This image made Front Page Explore May 19, 2010

Would the little critter care?

lol..... probably not!
My Mom so loved wearing fly and bee pins.

Nature Backyard Diptera Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Vintage Opal & Garnet 8k Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring by Johny's Gems..... original box.

2010-05-24T13:11:00.028-05:00

Written on top of the box is

JOHNY'S GEMS

199 SIKUK PHAYASRI BANGKOK

Tel. 27536

If interested in purchasing this 8ky ring with opals

and garnets, please email art154@comcast.net

This is a temporary jewelry post for a friend......... if you click on "home" below this post, it will take you to all my nature images........ thanks for your patience and I apologize for the detour ;0)

Nature Art Photography by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia

Old Timey Plant..... the beauty of Bristly Locust foliage.

2010-05-22T07:39:00.007-05:00

Robinia hispida I believe this variety may be, it grows as a small shrub or tree..... an "old timey" plant. This particular one came from an offshoot of my Grandmother's and has populated a portion of the garden. Bristly is very easy to maintain as it is very drought tolerant and survives in the poorest soils. Of course it would excel in health and beauty with a loving touch ;0)

Nature Green Foliage Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image take in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

nostalgic ant #1..... in solemn pause

2010-05-21T10:40:00.010-05:00

.....muted in soft sepia tone.....

Happy TGIF!

Insect Nature Old Photograph Faux by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

tagged by mother nature

2010-05-20T07:47:00.005-05:00

A fresh new shiny growth of a green leaf on vine,

wrapped around the porch rail.
Roundleaf Greenbriar (Smilax rotundifolia)

My advice is: Don't wander into a patch of these vines.....

the thorns will make you cry ;0(

I spent a bit of time throughout Maine, Vermont, etc. one summer and kept seeing these signs "tag sale"......well of course it was just another way of saying "yard sale"..... so I went to every one I could. I loved it up there. Wish I could have had a camera then ;0(

Nature Native Plant Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Mantis Soft

2010-05-19T14:01:00.005-05:00

A misty morning hunt in Mantid Land.

Chinese Praying Mantis nymph

Japanese Lace-leaf Maple Tree

Honestly, if I were a Mantis mother, I would not deposit my eggs on a red tree..... not the best camouflage for my green babies! They must be color blind ;0(

Nature Backyard Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

dreaming of you

2010-05-19T07:32:00.003-05:00

Cope's Gray Treefrog - Hyla chrysoscelis

Resting on the Fringe Tree, this little amphibian waits for nightfall when it will announce its presence to that special one..... it's breeding season here ;0)

Nature Wildlife Frog Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

happy to be a frog

2010-05-18T07:35:00.014-05:00

Cope's Gray Treefrog - Hyla chrysoscelis

Resting on a Fringe Tree leaf, this little amphibian waits for the night when it will (very loudly) announce its presence to the world. I can hear its call easily from inside the house, all night long.

Camouflage Works!

I'm just plain cute ;0)

When I turned on the porch light later that evening, it was sitting on the edge of the rain barrel, two more were taking a dip in the water. They had quite a chorus going on..... and the barrel greatly intensifies their sounds!

Backyard Nature Frog Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Images taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

"be fruitful and multiply"

2010-05-17T09:17:00.008-05:00

I wasn't feeling well yesterday so was relaxing on the deck when I noticed a cloud of insects emerging from an old stump, had to get my camera. I suppose they are winged termites or ants, heading out to infest some wood ;0(

In regard to not feeling well, A tick presented me with Lyme disease this past week and I am on 500mg (3xday) of Amoxicillin for 21 days. SO BE VIGILANT with removing those ticks IMMEDIATELY folks..........Please!!!!

I suppose those nightly visits to my yard from the deer have a darker side ;0(

Nature Insect Populations Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

assuring us of future generations..... egg laying

2010-05-16T18:45:00.006-05:00

American Painted Lady Butterfly

Depositing eggs on Cudweed plant

Vanessa virginiensis on (Gnaphalium spp.) Asteraceae

Nature Butterfly Garden Plant Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

In My Backyard

Cope's Gray Treefrog - Hyla chrysoscelis........in macro.

2010-05-16T07:00:00.004-05:00

.........sitting on my index finger ;0)

Three of these were on and in the rain barrel last night..... being VERY loud with their calls. Today this one was hanging out on the Fringe Tree next to the barrel. It had such a calm nature that it would freely climb on your finger if nudged gently under its throat.

Backyard Nature Amphibian Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

American Painted Lady Butterfly..... depositing eggs on Cudweed.

2010-05-15T08:55:00.004-05:00

Vanessa virginiensis on (Gnaphalium spp.) Asteraceae

Plant native Cudweed in your butterfly garden!
(click on image to link to more info)

Nature Insect Egg-Laying Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County Backyard

i am softly yours

2010-05-14T07:47:00.005-05:00

Happy TGIF EVERYone!

Graham Thomas English Rose..... i just love low light ;0)

Nature Yellow Flower Blossom Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County - Backyard

American Painted Lady Butterfly (Vanessa virginiensis).....nest in Cudweed.

2010-05-13T10:28:00.004-05:00

(click on the image to enlarge)

Cudweed (Gnaphalium spp.) Asteraceae

I have left Cudweed in my yard for several years since discovering American Lady Butterfly caterpillars feeding on them. Already I have found four such nests this year and seen the butterfly depositing eggs on the weed.

I have posted an image of a caterpillar building its metamorphosis abode along with a picture of a butterfly in my Flickr post..... http://www.flickr.com/photos/lifeoncanvas/4603232885/

Native Butterfly Garden Plant Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County backyard

Queen Anne's Lace and the Varied Carpet Beetle

2010-05-10T10:48:00.010-05:00

If you take these wildflowers indoors.....

make sure these little insects aren't on them ;0)

Varied Carpet Beetles (Anthrenus verbasci) are feeding on the pollen of the delicate white flowers of Queen Anne's Lace (daucus carota - apiaceae)

Nature Native Wildflower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

For Mother's Day.......... Blue-Eyed Grass sisyrinchium. Native Wildflower of Virginia.

2010-05-09T20:29:00.005-05:00

Looking back to Mother's Days passed.
Hug your Mom ;0)
Blue-eyed Grass in wetland meadow.

Nature Macro Flower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

Cricket Frog Camouflage

2010-05-07T08:50:00.005-05:00

Yep...... making like a rock..... well trying ;0)

Acris gryllus - Amphibian

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Native Wildlife Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Lost kitty is birdwatching..... but lost no more ;0)

2010-05-05T19:40:00.007-05:00

This is the first time this cat has let me get close in several years. I didn't even know what it looked like up close..... had called it "the streak" because it would run quickly across the driveway about a hundred feet away and disappear. Now all of a sudden it's my best friend..... go figure ;0)

Yeaaaa.... found out that he is a nearby neighbor's cat

that has been missing for about three years.

They just picked him up and took him home!

Miracles happen ;0)

Feline Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Little Bee On Daisy Fleabane

2010-05-04T19:06:00.004-05:00

Erigeron annuus..... a native wildflower of Virginia.

Nature Insect Pollination Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Oh the heavenly sweet taste of Clover honey!

2010-05-04T07:33:00.005-05:00

Backyard Clover and our beloved wild Honeybee.

I use honey as a sweetener instead of sugar so I especially appreciate our pollinating bees. The sweet smell of these "yard weeds" made me stop in my tracks, breathe deeply and notice this industrious little visitor ;0)

Nature Insect Pollination Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Sunny Robin Redbreast in a Bald Cypress moment.

2010-05-03T07:30:00.006-05:00

American or North American Robin

Turdus migratorius

I was photoing insects when this backyard

resident presented itself so obligingly in a tree close to me.

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County.

Nature Wild Bird Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Sawtooth Blackbery Blossom..... native plant of Virginia.

2010-05-02T18:55:00.004-05:00

Rubus argutus..... come on Blackberries!

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Nature Berry Flower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Blackberry Blossom In Portraiture

2010-04-30T19:59:00.005-05:00

Softly delicious to sight..... eventually delicious to taste ;0)

Sawtooth Blackberry Rubus argutus

Thank you pollinators!

I'm dreaming of fresh fruit on cereal ;0)

Nature Native Berry Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Sunbathing beauty on my deck..... wearing a T-shirt?

2010-04-30T17:31:00.004-05:00

Ahhhhh.....this feels Sooooo Good!

Cairo Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Mulberry Tree..... unripe berries are green but turn to red ;0)

2010-04-30T16:35:00.005-05:00

The birds will love it's fruit again this year ;0)

They wouldn't allow me but a handful ;0(

Image taken in Chesterfield County - Richmond, Virginia

Nature Berry Tree Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Boomers

2010-04-30T07:40:00.009-05:00

boomers watching the old folks and young uns

A little wild humor for the day ;0)

Backyard Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Busy Bumblebee On Blackberry Blossom

2010-04-30T07:30:00.004-05:00

Bumblebees, along with many other insects, were franticly active on the Blackberry plants yesterday. Soon their attention will be diverted to the American Holly and just in time. As you can see, the Blackberry flowers are beginning to brown.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Nature Insect Pollinator Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

......beyond old

2010-04-29T07:14:00.006-05:00

.........tulip poplar blossom from last year.

Nature Tree Flower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

White-breasted Nuthatch agrees..... recycling an old mailbox as a birdhouse is a good thing ;0)

2010-04-28T14:40:00.006-05:00

(click on image to see more pictures of this backyard bird house)

Sitta carolinensis

Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

1) leave mailbox on the post

2) insert a cedar or spruce board that has an appropriate size hole for the species you wish to use it

3) frame the hole with a metal closet pole holder (turned upside down)

4) wait for this ecology conscious birdhouse to be "appreciated"

5) enjoy!

Wrens have nested here too.

Recycle Reuse Mailbox Project by Carolyn Hietala

death, taxes.......... and dandelion!

2010-04-28T07:16:00.007-05:00

Taraxacum officinale

Happy Spring Yard Work Everyone!
I tasted dandelion wine years ago and it was soooooo good,

never looked upon this lowly "weed" quite the same again!

Appreciate its beauty ;0)
perennial - edible - yellow flower - Asteraceae

Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

Nature Wildflower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala
All my images are copyright protected with all rights reserved.

There can be no Spring in Virginia without blossoms of Dogwood ;0)

2010-04-27T08:47:00.005-05:00

American Dogwood

Cornus florida or Benthamidia florida

Virginia State Flower

Nature Flowering Tree Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Mommy is quiet and snug in her nest as she broods her eggs..... House Wren - troglodytes aedon

2010-04-25T06:17:00.007-05:00

Since this image was taken the babies have hatched but I dare not get close. I wouldn't wish to disturb them. Have a super Sunday everyone ;0)

Backyard Nature Bird Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

POLLEN GOT ME DOWN.............. ;0(

2010-04-24T07:41:00.006-05:00

Well at least it won't be quite as bad today.

The rain here will settle it a bit ;0)

Fuzzy Gray Moth

Nature Insect Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Love me, hate me, I don't care..... just keep that fly swatter nowhere near!

2010-04-23T18:11:00.007-05:00

Well almost a poem ;0)

Green Bottle Fly on Queen Anne's Lace.....

and a smidgen of an aphid.

Happy Fly Day Friday! Have a great weekend everyone ;0)

Nature Diptera Insect Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

itty bitty backyard bouquet

2010-04-23T12:08:00.006-05:00

Flowers..... plucked from the yard..... plopped in a vase!

Wildflowers On Silver Platter Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Solomon's Seal - Polygonatum biflorum var. commutatum

2010-04-23T06:39:00.009-05:00

This native woodland plant of Virginia

gracefully unfurls in shady pastels, warmed by noon sun.

(P. biflorum var. commutatum)

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Nature Wildflower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Happy Earth Day!!!!!! 2010

2010-04-22T21:04:00.005-05:00

"We Are Family"

Daisy Fleabane

(Erigeron annuus..... enjoying life, singing happily in unison ;0)

Nature Native Wildflower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

EARTH DAY Celebration..... one flower at a time!

2010-04-22T07:20:00.004-05:00

Pollinating the world......... it's a big job but someone has to do it.

God Bless Our Insects!

The native Blackberry bush has opened its

beautiful blossoms to welcome the pollinators.

Richmond virginia - Chesterfield county

Backyard Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Spring brings color to my cheeks..... male Five-lined Skink (Eumeces fasciatus)

2010-04-21T08:25:00.007-05:00

I see that this fella also has a few battle scars alongside his chubby body. He proudly displays his manly orange head as breeding season has begun under the Oak Tree in my backyard ;0)

Yesterday I noticed that a female has been staying in close proximity to an open bag of peat moss I had left at the edge of the yard. I must store it so she doesn't begin a nest..... hope she hasn't already!

Nature Reptile Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Native lizard photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

A patch of Daisy Fleabane embellishes my driveway..... a delicate native wildflower of Virginia.

2010-04-20T06:12:00.009-05:00

Erigeron annuus

A nice sized patch of these native, delicate white wild flowers welcome the sun..... and welcome me as I turn into the driveway. This year they are especially lovely so count on more pics ;0)

Nature Wildflower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

ACHOO!!!!!! Hickory Tree catkins and our beautiful native Virginian Fringe Tree ;0)

2010-04-19T07:56:00.012-05:00

Hickory in morning sunlight

Fringe Tree - Chionanthus virginicus

(I doubt this gem contributes to our allergy symptoms)

Remember..... pollen really is a good thing ;0)

Nature Tree Flora Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photos taken in Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

You'd better have a REALLY good reason for interrupting my siesta!!!!!

2010-04-16T08:12:00.006-05:00

Charlie ;0)

Pet Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Woodland creature..... the harmless, shy and very elusive Eastern Worm Snake - Carphophis amoenus amoenus

2010-04-15T07:51:00.009-05:00

This little snake was discovered napping under a board at the edge of my yard, The board had been warmed by sunshine, becoming a nice place to raise this small reptile's body temperature.

I have scattered a few more small boards about the backyard wood, strictly for catching a shot of some surprised small critter..... lift slowly and snap picture quickly ;0)

Wild Nature Reptile Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

I'm shy, agile and always sneaking around.....

2010-04-14T07:41:00.006-05:00

.....who am I?

(click on image to find out more about me ;0)

Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Backyard photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Five-lined Skink - Blue Tailed Stripes Lizard

Mother Paper Wasp closely scrutizes my Rebel XT lens ;0)

2010-04-13T07:49:00.003-05:00

Protective Motherhood

You might be surprised to learn that these wasps can be quite tame. I was able, on several occasions, to hand feed a caterpillar to a mommy last year. She, in turn, prepared it and fed it to her young. She only accepted green caterpillars though.... picky ;0)

Wild Insect Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Spring freshens the Fringe Tree with lovely new foliage. The flowering is near.

2010-04-12T14:57:00.006-05:00

Fringe Trees are native to Virginia's woodlands.

Richmond, Va. - Chesterfield County

Nature Tree Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Buds of Daisy Fleabane bow to Spring. I await in anticipation for its delicate display of white blossoms ;0)

2010-04-11T06:59:00.010-05:00

A native flowering plant of Richmond, Virginia

Photo taken in Chesterfield County

Search my blog for "fleabane" to view it in flower ;0)

Wildflower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

What a beautiful day in Richmond, Virginia! Native woodland plants blossom in the warm sun.

2010-04-09T17:34:00.009-05:00

This small tree wears deep red berries in Fall.

Nature Tree Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

My most popular original photographs to date on Flickr ;0) Nature Photography & More!

2009-12-07T09:20:00.008-05:00

Click on the link or an image below to view my original artworks and photographs on Flickriver..... scroll down slowly and enjoy. All are titled, centered and beautifully showcased on a black background ;0)

All my images and art are copyright protected with all rights reserved.

Nature Art & Photography Blog by Carolyn Hietala
Artist - Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Don't miss the THINKSMALL5 miniature art exhibition opening this week in Richmond!

2009-11-03T13:30:00.009-05:00

For a sneak peak at some of the available works that will be for sale

at Art6 and Artspace galleries visit the link below..... ENJOY!

http://www.artspacegallery.org/ts5/index.htm

Honeybee On Wild Aster - Miniature Acrylic Painting On Silk Canvas - 3"x3" - FRAMED

2009-10-24T15:35:00.009-05:00

This small nature art was painted by me for the upcoming ThinkSmall5 exhibition taking place here in Richmond, Virginia. The exhibit runs from November 6, through December 20, 2009.

Purchase from hundreds of works by local, national, and international artists at the 5th Biennial International Miniature Invitational, a special fundraising event for Artspace and art6 galleries.

The outside frame measurement of the above painting is 7.75 x 7.75 inches. The work is matted and protected under glass. I took the sipping insect reference image in October 2008 in my Chesterfield County yard ;0)

Artist - Carolyn Hietala

Blue Dasher Dragonfly..... a melancholy one.

2009-08-20T14:25:00.007-05:00

Dragonflies have emotions?

Wouldn't have the faintest idea. I only know that images of them evoke varied feelings in me.

Yesterday I passed by the rain barrel and on a seed pod was a Dasher. I took off my glasses (am very very near sighted) and approached slowly until she was in focus. Let me tell you, up close and only a few inches away from her face..... it was way more exhilerating to view the creature this way than through a camera lens. Those eyes are mesmerizing! She was eating a bug, moving her little head and chomping her jaws. The sunlight was reflecting off those eyes, through them revealing their amazing beauty. It was a special memory that never went digital..... and that's ok ;0)

Blue Dasher Dragonfly - Pachydiplax longipennis

Odonata - Female

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Insect Backyard Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Northern Copperhead Snake - Agkistrodon contortrix mokasen - VENOMOUS

2009-08-19T15:45:00.006-05:00

Serpent Bokeh!

Macro image taken in Richmond, Virginia

Chesterfield County Backyard

Poisonous Reptile Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

life has all sorts of twists and turns..... we must adapt

2009-08-18T06:41:00.005-05:00

A native wildflower Rhexia virginica aka Handsome Harry.

This little pink wildflower knows perserverance.

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Native Backyard Flower Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Dragonfly - Pachydiplax longipennis - Odonata - Female

2009-08-17T06:37:00.005-05:00

the sun is so bright.....

lol.....actually this Blue Dasher is using its front legs to aid in the positioning of an insect in its mouth. It is eating while resting on an iron crowbar I was using in the backyard the other day ;0)

Backyard Insect Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

I wonder if this little fellow would appreciate being on Flickr Explore ;0)

2009-08-16T09:05:00.008-05:00

I doubt that he would even care.

He's too self-absorbed these days just

pigging out on Hickory nuts ;0)

The squirrels are going literally nuts over the Hickory Tree beside the house. Day and night I hear the nuts falling to the ground. All day long the rodents feast on them..... and they are getting quite chubby. I took this young fellow's image through the window yesterday morning.

Eastern Gray Squirrel - Sciurus carolinensis

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

Wildlife Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Great Blue Skimmer Dragonfly (Libellula vibrans) On Ribbon Grass

2009-08-13T12:49:00.007-05:00

This innocent-eyed fellow is the culprit that had chased the Blue Dasher dragonflies into the woods a few days ago. Thank goodness he has left the area..... but I do appreciate that he had allowed me to snap a few decent photographs of him before leaving. Here he is resting on the ornamental grass that grows in the rain barrel ;0)

Nature Odonata Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

(click on photo for larger view)

Image taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

if I were a bug.....

2009-08-12T07:53:00.006-05:00

.....i'd be breaking the sound barrier about now while SCREAMING!

Once again a hungry mouth prepares lift off to snatch another bug.

Hmmmm.....got mouthwash?

Blue Dasher Dragonfly

Pachydiplax longipennis - Odonata - Female

Insect Nature Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

forlorn dragon of the wood

2009-08-11T19:55:00.010-05:00

Blue Dasher Dragonfly

(click on image to enlarge)

Pachydiplax longipennis - Odonata

Photo taken in Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

Nature Insect Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

if you did notice me..... you would not easily forget me!

2009-08-09T19:38:00.005-05:00

This is my world.

Chinese Praying Mantis - Female Nymph

Tenodera aridifolia sinensis

Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

Insect Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

time steals many things..........

2009-08-08T12:49:00.005-05:00

memories get fuzzy

some fade forever away

and new ones keep us going

Nature Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

American Hazelnut - Corylus americana Walt. - A Virginia Native Tree

2009-07-31T07:57:00.008-05:00

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia

Chesterfield County

Does anyone know how I might KEEP THE SQUIRRELS from eating all of the nuts this year? Last year I watched and waited for the nuts to mature only to have them completely gone in a few days. I have one large shrub that I would love to protect from their greed..... they can have the rest!!!!! ;0)

Flora Nature Backyard Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Let's Share A Blue Dasher Sundown

2009-07-30T18:25:00.008-05:00

Blue Dasher Dragonfly

Pachydiplax longipennis - Odonata

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

As the day winds down, a dragonfly with tattered wings is found to be still hunting for insects on the Fringe Tree.

Insect Nature Artistic Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

I will capture your soul.....

2009-07-29T10:32:00.004-05:00

.....did mine ;0)

Blue Dasher Dragonfly - Pachydiplax longipennis - Odonata

Wildlife Nature Insect Macro Photograph

by Carolyn Hietala

the sentinel

2009-07-23T07:50:00.006-05:00

Flies beware!

Robberfly - Asilidae diptera

Hanging-Thieves

Wildlife Insect Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia

Chesterfield County

WARNING! Just remember now all you berry pickers out there....... and you know who you are..... ;0)

2009-07-21T09:04:00.010-05:00

Northern Copperhead Snake (Baby)

Luscious Sweet Blackberries

Find.....Pick.....Eat.....

.....and be sure to wear high boots

and don't pick too low to the ground.

Leave the snakes alone and they'll leave you alone!
Be safe, enjoy and please check for ticks later.....ha ;0)

Reptile Wild Nature Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

under the porch light

2009-07-20T21:34:00.004-05:00

You never know what mischief might be

brewing out there as you sleep!

Chinese Mantis Insect Macro Photograph

by Carolyn Hietala

Moth being devoured in

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

BOO!!!!!!!!!

2009-07-17T04:17:00.005-05:00

Did I scare you? ...teeheeheeeeee!

Like my green bonnet?

Asiatic Dayflower - commelina communis
A blue native Virginia wildflower..... and a bit levity for the day ;0)

Taken in Richmond Virginia - Chesterfield County

Flower Nature Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

when you first see me I am flawed, but your empathy makes me whole.....

2009-07-16T11:41:00.007-05:00

My Beauty Brightly Shines

A part of this little dragonfly's leg is missing ;0(
Male Blue Dasher is glancing at me as it rests on a Fringe Tree branch.

Nature Odonata Insect Macro Photograph

by Carolyn Hietala

Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

..............conducting a symphony of hope.............

2009-07-15T07:46:00.006-05:00

Enjoy the gift of life.

Happy Bokeh Wednesday Everyone!!!!!

Swaying in the wind are Flax and another miscellaneous plant that magically appeared after I had tossed discarded bird seed into the garden ;0)

Flower Nature Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

.........a gift for the pure at heart.........

2009-07-14T07:57:00.011-05:00

Red Lily - Pure White Bokeh

This flower has been blooming for many many years and it still WOW's me. I brought it with me when I moved to the new house, along with various other precious plants.....and memories ;0)

Flora Nature Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Blossom photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

We have so much in common..... ;0)

2009-07-13T06:07:00.010-05:00

Least Skipper - Ancyloxpha numitor

Small Orange Butterfly

Bug Nymph - Yellow Flower

Backyard Insect Macro Photograph by Carolyn Hietala

Photo taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

in reverence..........

2009-07-12T07:19:00.010-05:00

Blue Dasher Dragonfly..........thankful ;0)

Nature Odonata Insect Macro Photograph

by Carolyn Hietala

Photograph taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County

inner beauty lasts a lifetime.....

2009-07-11T10:00:00.006-05:00

.....whereas outer beauty fades.....

but then, after all,

beauty is in the eye of the beholder ;0)

Nature Floral Macro Photography by Carolyn Hietala

Photograph taken in Richmond, Virginia - Chesterfield County