Pictured above right: Praying Mantis photographed by Jolanda
Pictured below left: Eucalyptus Tenera

One thing I noticed compared to last year January is that there are lots of Eucalyptus species flowering. This wasn’t the case last year. It may have to do with the rains earlier in the year. Eucalyptus species do not always flower each year so I am fortunate that they do now. I am finally starting to see the differences in the species but it is not easy. I have an excellent book to assist me (Eucalypts of Western Australia’s Wheatbelt by Malcolm French) and I can submit my species to an expert at the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and the Arts who will let me know if I got it wrong (yes it happens!). That gives me reassurance that I have named the mallees and trees/mallets correctly.
I also notice that with the profuse flowering of the eucalypts, a lot of insect life is around in the reserve. I have seen some big (jewel) beetles and flower wasps. The males of these take the opportunity to mate with the females as they are occupied feeding on the nectar. I always feel privileged to be there at the right time and to be able to see them, even if it is only through binoculars.
My next visit will be 9 to 12 February. If anybody wants to come along, let me know and we can meet up on site. If you have any questions, you can reach me by email at tarinrockbook@gmail.com or by phone on 0439978550.
Article by Jolanda Keeble
2019 Tarin Rock Field Walk Dates:
March 10th till 13th
April: 6th till 9th
May: 6th till 9th
June: 3rd till 6th
July: 17th till 20th
August:15th till 19th
September: 7th till 12th
October: 5th till 10th
November: 11th till 14th