© Ellen Harasimowicz
Oi, what a ladybug hunt we had! Here’s the loose math: 27 intrepid ladybug spotters, 14 heavy-duty sweep nets, 7 buckets for sorting bugs, 5 scientists, 5 teachers, 1 hour, and … (cue the dramatic music, please) …
7 ladybug species!
The fourth-grade citizen scientists Ellen and I shadowed were amazingly dedicated field workers and didn’t let wet clover, threatening clouds, or sudden intense sunshine slow them down. They captured, photographed, and released 7-spotted, pink-spotted, polished, checker-spotted, glacial, Asian multi-colored, and three-banded ladybugs. Not bad for a day’s work.
Ellen and I are now back at our hotel. I am typing up notes like a madwoman. She is reviewing photos like a madwoman. We have decided we have the most perfect jobs ever…