sceloporus undulatus
Thursday, March 27, 2008 — 3:35 pm
Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas
It reached 80 degrees on this afternoon, and I wandered along Lee Creek taking photographs of birds and butterflies — and lizards. This little guy ran across the trail in front of me and climbed on a stump just a few feet from the water. He then dashed back across the path and posed for me on a rock. He was about four-inches long.
erynnis brizo
Thursday, March 27, 2008 — 3:30 pm
Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas
I was wandering along Lee Creek trying to get photographs of Goatweed Leafwings and Tiger Swallowtails. Both those butterflies were being very wary, but this little guy kept landing in the mud right at my feet. It wasn’t large — about as wide as a quarter. It had a bluish/purple sheen on its wings. When it flew, it stayed in the immediate area and close to the ground.
anaea andria
Thursday, March 27, 2008 — 3:00 pm
Devil’s Den State Park, Arkansas
I’m pretty sure I saw several of these in the woods along the Butterfield Trail on Tuesday, but I didn’t have the energy to stop and look. No problem. On Thursday afternoon, it got up to 80 degrees and there were quite of few of them along Lee Creek.
The problem wasn’t seeing them — it was trying to get close enough to take a photograph, especially with the wings open. They were very shy about showing their colors, except in flight. (All the ones I saw were males — brightly orange colored.) I finally got the two shots below while I was taking photographs of Tiger Swallowtails. I noticed the Goatweed Leafwing sunning itself about 20 feet away and was able to get these shots with my zoom.
I love corn dogs. I’ve loved them since I used to feast on them regularly at the Dog n Suds near my home as a teenager. When I found out the place where they were created was in Springfield, I knew the next time I was there …
The inside was decorated with Cozy Dog and Route 66 trivia and signs. We ordered six corn dogs for $9.00.
My Dad used to tell me that anticipation was greater than gratification. Never has that been more true than at Cozy Dog Drive In. The dogs looked great, but they were tasteless and somewhat moist. They made us feel bloated. It’s obvious the place survives on its reputation. If you’re ever in Springfield, avoid this place. You can get a better corn dog at the grocery store or your neighborhood Sonic.
Since we were in the neighborhood …
There’s a bust of Lincoln out front. Tradition has it that rubbing his nose brings good luck (the nose is shiny from all the people who have tried). My wife and daughter decided to find out what sort of luck came from picking his nose.
