STICK INSECT

Phasmids are insects that eat leaves and resemble leaves or sticks. They are usually green or brown but may reveal brightly coloured underwings when they fly. They have developed many unusual shapes to camouflage themselves to avoid detection by predators. The order Phasmatodea includes the longest insects in the world.

About 150 species of phasmids are found in Australia. They usually live in gum trees but are sometimes found in gardens on rose bushes or fruit trees. However because of their excellent camouflage, they are often overlooked. When disturbed, a phasmid may sway, imitating a dead leaf or stick swaying in the breeze. During summer many people have found stick and leaf insects in the laundry, clinging to windows, and drowned in swimming pools.

This post is part of the Saturday Critters meme

AUTUMN SUNSET

This post is part of the Skywatch Friday meme

FLOWERING GUM TREE

From Autumn until Spring, many of Australia's native flora species flower. This is a flowering Eucalyptus tree, all of the common eucalyptus trees being referred to in Australia as "gum trees".

This post is part of the Floral Friday Fotos meme.

RAIN

As Autumn progresses in Melbourne, the days get shorter (of course!), the nights are noticeably cooler and the days more often than not are mellow and warm. However, increasingly we may see rain showers, or occasionally heavy rain that can lead to flash-flooding. Well, it's Melbourne, and if you don't like the weather, wait an hour and it will change!

The gardens of course gratefully receive the rain and this year everything seems to be growing/blooming prematurely. For example, I saw the first Spring bulbs sprouting today! A few months before their time...

This post is part of the Roentare’s Water Meme

and also part of the Wordless Wednesday meme
and also part of the Nature Notes meme.

MELBOURNE GREEK FESTIVAL

Antipodes Greek Festival in Melbourne is a way to immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant world of Greek culture. It is and interesting and exciting experience celebrating all things Greek. There is always an extraordinary lineup of performers, artists, stallholders, and surprises that ensure you experience a most epic celebration. Generally, this Festival is held in February every year. Here are some Cretan Dancers, dancing a folk dance called the "Sousta".

This post is part of the Travel Tuesday meme