Paul

Amorous.... 

Paul.

I actually felt dismayed as this sequence unfolded, but that's the way nature goes.

On a small piece of rock covered in moss, the "beast" waited patiently, and the "beauty" just didn't seem to notice her, and succumbed to the bigger hunter... Amaurobius sp. and Salticus scenicus.

Paul.

Welcome to the  Forum Mick

Paul.

There were several more to choose from than that, but ultimately it was these two that made it into the final reckoning 

Poignant, saddening, and yet beautiful.

Paul.

Lovely capture Geoff, a fine morsel for the lady.

Paul.

Well where do I start?

I'll start with the fact that there were very few images to choose from which were posted on or after June 19th, so despite a week of looking, I'm down to not a lot to choose from (and I can't count my own in this total)...

It comes down to a 2 horse race in the end - with Geoff's capture of a blackbird with a cockie in it's beak, or the evocative flower photo from Polly - the poignant tale of her late sister-in-law's  passing anniverary.

Sorry Geoff, but the hearstrings won out - it's a very pretty picture and the framing colours just gave it the edge.

Read the full story and post here - my winner is Polly's "A Geranium called Patricia".

Paul.

Thank you Geoff 

Paul.

It'll use an air dryer when it flies off Polly  

Paul.

Preston Marina - where the city meets the sea, site of the Albert Edward Dock which opened in 1892 and at the time was the largest single dock in the country. In 1948 the dock was the first to introduce roll-on roll-off tracking, utilising the technique used by tank landing craft during the Second World War.

From its slow beginnings the docks experience a steady growth in trade in the early decades of the 20th century. With the outbreak of the First World War the docks took on a new role, exporting munitions produced by local factories that had been retooled for the war effort.

Over the course of its history the dock handled a wide variety of general cargoes. Incoming vessels would unload raw cotton, timber, china clay, fruit (including bananas and citrus from the West Indies), wheat, horses, cattle, coal, petroleum products, fishmeal, fertilisers, and wood pulp.

From October 1982 to November 1990 the former Isle of Man passenger vessel TSS Manxman was moored at Preston Dock. Originally purchased to be used as a museum and visitor centre, the vessel was converted for use as a floating restaurant and bar. Upon expiration of its mooring contract the vessel was towed to Liverpool.

Music: Water Shows The Hidden Heart by Enya.

Paul.

Thanks Geoff 

Paul.

This moth was flying around the garden attracted by the outside light no doubt but it was raining quite hard, and it dropped into a plant pot and ended up between the leaves and flowers.

Paul.

Thanks Dee - the bold contrast makes it work for me.

Paul.

Thank you Polly  

Paul 

Well done Monkey  

Paul.

Typical territory for waggys - lovely shots.

Paul.

Great background too Geoff.

Paul.

A nice pose Cheryl.

Paul.

Chomped through a lot of leaves to get this tubby....  I think it may be the the Common Quaker moth when it grows up...

Paul.

They flew too far west to see them in the north west, but I can only imagine the majesty of the sight of the trio.

Paul.

She's lovely, and so small. You've got nice and close Geoff.

Paul.

Avenham  Park (and the adjacent Miller Park) are grade II listed Victorian parklands located in the middle of the city centre of Preston and less than 10 minutes from Preston's rail and bus stations.

The award winning parks are set by the River Ribble with many features and historical points of interest such as Derby Walk, the Italianate Terrace and the Japanese rock garden. It is also the official start and end point of the Guild Wheel - a 21-mile walking and cycle route.

The natural amphitheatre in Avenham Park is the ideal spot for picnics, watching the world go by, and family games. The park's paths circle this large green space and offer serene views from all angles. 

This includes views of the park's Japanese Rock Garden - a beautiful and exotic garden area created in the 1930s. The Japanese Rock Garden features a peaceful pond and areas to sit and reflect. There is also the Pavilion café, which is open every day of the week offering a range of food and refreshment.

Paul.

6 hours ago, Clicker said:

Love the last lacewing ...

There was I think 4 flying and landing, could have been 5, but they are so delicate!

Paul. 

13 minutes ago, Hatter said:

Another great set!

Cheers Gareth 

Paul.

Better than a Canon 100mm I reckon Gareth...

Paul.