McFly
It was a very relaxing Saturday, with reasonably fine weather and plenty of time to do a bit of gardening. The last few plants of the year are now in the ground, filling all the gaps. It should be even better tomorrow, so maybe a BBQ is in the offing. I took a few pictures in the garden—everything is looking so lush and alive this time of year—and I noticed this big fat bluebottle perched on a horse chestnut leaf. I managed to get quite close without spooking him!
Bluebottle flies may not be the most beloved of insects, but these iridescent flies are fascinating creatures. Part of the blowfly family, bluebottles get their name from the stunning blue/green metallic sheen on their bodies. This striking colouration is courtesy of microscopic structures on their bodies that interfere with light waves, creating an iridescent effect. While their shimmering bodies are eye-catching, bluebottles have an important ecological role as decomposers. They are among the first insects to detect and lay eggs on dead animals or rotting organic matter. The bluebottle larvae (maggots) consume and break down these materials, helping recycle nutrients into the environment. Their sensory abilities to detect decaying matter from miles away are remarkable. So, while you may swat them away from your picnic, remember that bluebottles are vital to nature's clean-up crew.
