The MuleSkinner Book Recommendation # 32

Robert Louis Stevenson : Black Arrow (1883) / Child's Garden of Verses (1885) 

[Recommendation(s) V / 2011]

"The air was raw and pointed, but not far below freezing, and the flakes were large, damp and adhesive. […] High up overhead the snow settled among the tracery of the cathedral towers. Many a niche was drifted full; many a statue wore a long white bonnet on it's grotesque or sainted head. The gargoyles had been transformed into great false noses, drooping towards the point. The crockets were like upright pillows swollen on one side. In the intervals of the wind , there was a dull sound of dripping about the precincts of the church."
(From)  Lodging for the Night – A story of Francis Villon (New Arabian Nights, p. 1882)

...Cited sentences on begin of this recommend I thought for a good excerpt to show some best elements at the Stevenson's (1850-94) depiction and narration. Although in the most stories it's the catchy narration that perhaps plays most meaningful part, his writing often finely describes places and surroundings too. This excert (and the story) seems mentioned to belong for his earliest written fiction (or at least published), so maybe it is also even bit more carefully built than some later wrote stories. But, typically it has nice paragraphs from the place, situation and the circumstances (The weather), which then lead the reader for the actual story.

Treasure Island map from books
19th century edition.
(pic from Harman's biography)

This recommendations sequel resulted originally from abrupt awakening to notice that I hadn't read much anything from Stevenson [RLS]. Even that the author is a world renown of couple of his books; Other that (perhaps) most popular adventure story for the youths (and adult), The Treasure Island (1883) (...or, 'Sea Cook' as the manuscript originally was named). The other famous book of RLS, The Strange case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (1886), is not quite as famous, but appears be some cornerstone on horror from the 'Victorian era' (that late 19th century). It is said not read by so many, but book even preceded emergence of modern psychology as the scientific theory, and also has later settled for part of a common language. (So, the Jekyll/Hyde often is loaned to language as synonym for a term referring to so called "split personality"). More generally the book itself can be described as the most borrowed source at much of the 20th century popular fiction/entertainment. Take, fx, almost any popular movie containing elements of horror or fantasy, and most likely there's something on the characters/scenes/etc., inspired from this classic story. (...Of the movies that I've recently seen fx the Gremlins – in particular 'New Batch' (1990) and Lords of the Rings (2000s) first come to mind. But you name it, there's probably lot more examples than it's equally numerous adaptations for the film and stage - Which, seem said count well over the hundred separate adaptations, solely).

Anyway, as I had read both of the books mentioned and not much anything else from RLS (like most people, probably), I made a little effort to mend that hole at my literary knowledge and also took on to read Claire Harman's biography from Stevenson. (Listed at the end of this post). Harman's biography doesn't completely escape from that 'maze of gossippean stories' and other stuff (feels to me that's somewhat 'besetting difficulty' for almost anything written about Stevenson's life and works). Yet, the biography succeeds make a good literature portrait. ...So it's also some alternative recommended reading at this instance. Of course, there seems be plentiful biographies been written, old and new. (At least, couple other books seem seen the light during latest decades ...Probably there's even some more as the Stevenson study is said have 'relived' renaissance during/since about late 1990s.)

The strange (literary) place of the (author) R.L.Stevenson. Despite of that the mentioned books (solely) form the better known fiction written by RLS, recent research seems have recognized him for very productive author. Only that Stevenson's most passionate habit was starting ever new projects of which relative few were finished. (Harman fx seems notice at her introductive words that RLS 'made great many beginnings and relatively few ends'). Considering the previously said, and also Stevensons ill health, seems actually even more surprising that he was able finish such excessive amount of texts. ...(According Harman) the total extent of RLS's unpublished works had not become more clear until about 1980s. The combined works seem said list closely 400 separate items; And so she as well writes that '[Stevenson] with a little push one way or other might not've been known as author of Treasure Island and Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde but as playright of 'Kings' Rubies' and biographer of Viscount Dundee.' Also, fx it is noticed that the actual reason for that Treasure Island – like also the historical novel Black Arrow, book viewed later at this, and another renown novel Kidnapped (p. 1886) - to ever even were finished, was because Stevenson was writing them to a Youth Folks (a magazine) and wouldn't allow himself to disappoint his young readers on that case. Also, Harman seems fx say that the 'sense of urgency about establishing himself as a writer that Stevenson felt and his friends shared was sharpened by their concept of him as doomed to die young.' Hence the great many unfinished works, or at least feels logical for assuming so.

Stevenson was already at his own times recognized for quite peculiar character (explains also, at least partly, the large number from later researches and studies). His life contained many a struggle because of his ill health, however that didn't prevent it from having contained exciting chapters and circumstances. In spite of his (relative) brief life he made rather exceptional travels (Or, some real life 'adventures', at least so those must have seemed on his own times, and still do... Seems it been remarked that those sometimes were as adventurous than his best stories; Fx, the journey to meet his later wife has episodes that almost give an impression of being from some later western-movie. - And, vice versa, actually some of RLS's stories succeed reach very great realistic tone, to a level that them much feel like real-life episodes). But to keep this brief, it could also be fx said from him to have '...tramped on many places of Earth, camped frequently with the "Bohemian queen", and hastened at his days to accomplish several many projects and stories.' (...of course, previous just some verses of my own inventing...).

　

As the author Stevenson already was well appreciated even prior his wider fame (which was on mid/late 1880s), only that he (seems) 'failed' ever to have delivered some full-lenght masterpiece that would have canonized his place as a 'serious author' in the contemporary criticism. (And also secured some recognized status in the eyes of later criticism.). Due that perhaps, after Stevenson death, his status mostly was settled for that of a world renown writer of youth adventures et similar. More of this literary reception, and later de- and re-canonizations can be viewed fx from Stevenson's bio at Wikipedia (; Under topic modern reception).

　

The study of some recent decades has also recognized certain texts of RLS's for early 'precursors' of the post-modernist writing. Also, Harman writes that the detective character of RLS's creation (on New Arabian Nights) a lot inspired A.Conan Doyle (1859-1930) when he put on paper those famous Sherlock Holmes-stories.

The newer studies from life and works of RLS seems make equally large amount in total; Random search from the local database listed me about 300 items. (Although those possible contain number of entries to some unrelated texts also). ...Anyway, I've only listed couple of those at further readings on this. There's some book that I thought might be interesting because it discusses the influence(s) of the evolutionary science on Stevenson (or his writing, apparently). Stevenson was, along with his various other readings, well famialirized about views of Darwin (which also brought disagreement with his father, although the relations later somewhat settled). The other research I picked just because it seems interestingly adjoin that Jekyll & Hyde story for the cultural and technological changes at the late 19th century (discusses as well how some other novels reflect that) ...That's actually some 'close-reading' from those novels and contains quite theoretic terminology, etc. But seems an interesting view-point also, anyway.

Like noted earlier , the works of RLS seem very multisided. It's said that the planned and finished works contain fx historical biographies / researches, essays, poems, literary theory, travel books, pamphlets and also large correspondence (typical for people at that time, of course). There's (ao texts) fx many travel essays with the very nice descriptions from places and natures, roads and towns, etc. Actually (feels to me) that those essays are sometimes more interesting reading if compared than some of (his) fiction/novels - Due because many from the latter mentioned might feel a bit dated from a modern reader's perspective.

For his last years (due health reasons, around later 1880s) Stevenson moved to Samoa. His writings from that time (In the South Seas, 1896) also fx take keen interest for the negative consequences from European colonization of the Polynesian islands. ...Which were view-points not so commonly noticed by most from his comtemporaries. Stevenson wasn't of course first European novelist to arrive or write from those places - fx, Herman Melville (1819-91) has a few renown books from mid 19th century Pacific. Yet, few other thinkers at the time probably ever paid much attention for such questions as the drastic depopulation of native people on Polynesia (much due the European brought diseases, ao), or the colonial politics at the time. From some part Stevenson's text maybe reflects it's own period and attitudes, and them likely were influenced by the 19th century social sciences; Herbert Spencer's theories about nations and races, most probably. But Stevenson's writing always is very fresh, sometimes even surprisingly modern when viewed of today's great distance of time (Although, that was written closer the turn of the 20th century.). Also, 'South Sea' texts have often been found of interest and frequently cited at many later study/by researchers. (Stevenson himself actually considered those articles and essays only as sketches to book(s) thought to be later published, but that never realized. And so the texts appeared just after his death.)

However, those later years has to be left for these few remarks here. There's also fx 'A footnote to History, Eight years of trouble in the Samoa' by RLS (1891), written as some direct criticism of the colonial politics of it's time. Although that also never received much attention, it makes an example from Stevenson's (political) activity at the time. For the interested there's of course also various texts from the era, and as well later books and studies about that 'Stevensoniad' on Pacific...

　

Finally, a brief return for that classic Jekyl/Hyde-story (...Because seems it always to resurface on various contexts): Basically it's said usually interpret as a story from the good and evil (Or, story about the 'Evil that haunts all men', in case we wish to use such phrase). Harman seems also mention the other quite appreciated horror-tale by RLS, Markheim (1884). That is sometimes considered/seen form an early source for that Jekyll/Hyde-novellette. Short-story (Markheim) is also said having a lot similarity with the Dostoevsky's (1820-60) The Crime and punishment (p. 1866). Feels to me rather interesting (also thinking the later creation of a Jekyll/Hyde story), because there's indeed lot in common on 'Author-portraits' from Dostoyevsky and Stenveson.  Both are fx realists but in both cases that realism is somewhat 'odd', even bizarre. Also, they seem find more interest for their evil characters than the more 'honorable' personnel. (Or, alternatively stated, to both author's the question about human capability for evil deeds plays a crucial part on much of their writings/fiction.)

Anyway, the book (ie Jekyll/Hyde novellette) has always been an enormously influential story. I'm also to mention from my own earliest experience of the book. I happened to loan it as an audiobook. If told by some by good reader it's at least lot more thrilling than most filmations of the story. (With the original text, of course.)

Conventional 'abnormal' story for the boys. (...and some 'childish' poems). The book selected here are only some that I had time to read recently. Perhaps no coincidence that them both represent 'youth' fiction. Black Arrow (books also known by subtitle Tale of the two Roses), is a story situated on period from War of the Roses (Battle for power between the parties of York and Lancaster in the middle-age Britain - Actually, perhaps the reason I chose just this book for our example, was because I years ago read the story from some cheap comics magazine. Don't recall if the mag even had the name of the story's original author printed, possibly not, but anyway I was later somewhat surprised to find it actually been written by RLS).

In brief it's a historical youth fiction, rather typical to it's publication time. Black Arrow was written for some kind of following to the hugely popular Treasure Island, for the book also was at first published on Young Folks-magazine (on 1883, it not appeared as book before 1888). Like the treasure Island, story was originally published under pseudonyme, but it's writing appears been quite different process. Black arrow is said been put for paper during just about a couple months period. That somewhat shows, and basically the book is indeed quite conventional historical novel; The main hero appears almost insignificant of characteristics, the plot follows very unsurprising paths ...And even the ending ain't very inventive or original. Story's elements contain fx the revengeful Robin hoodian-bowmen, knighthood stories, castles and battles, and, the necessary romance.

...However, fx the introduction to story (or, how begins this adventurous youth fiction) is somewhat peculiar. Reader is lead for the story with a scene where some of it's characters kind of foretell the events to follow (chapter is also used for to describe those vengeageful arrows that form some main theme on books story-plot). It appears quite strange setting for begins of this kind youth fiction of the 19th century. Book also has lot purpose for (some morally valuing) realism, particularly what comes to the depiction from some of  it's characters. Of course, that also makes the book little contradictional, seems that there's passages written purely in form of typical romantic fiction and then, occasionally, chapters where this 'strive' for 'realism' prevails to the point that result appears quite confusing, and not very successfull in either way. But, Black Arrow is not a total failure for a book of it's kind. Considering how quickly it was written it's actually quite good. (Even though, Stevenson himself seems said have disliked novel on his later comments about it.)  In spite of that, the book also has found it's way for readings at some old youth books classics series - Accompanying there novels by other famous youth fiction authors, such as Defoe, Kipling, Verne, Sienkiewicz...

...A cover from books early 20th century edition
 (from it's Gutenberg text).

"The Moon has face like the clock in the hall;
She shines on thieves on the garden wall,
 and harbour quays; And birdies
asleep in the forks of the trees."

Our additional selected recommend, Child's garden of Verses (1885), is a book of some prose lyric. The story tells that RLS was writing the book in during a period of his repeating illnesses that practically prevented all his other work. Makes it actually even more respectable an achievement. Said also from always been amongts his most beloved books, at least on his home country (The book also has been translated for quite many languages, most probably). Written in a form of lyric-prose, Child's garden of verses has somewhat random collection of little 'poems', or stories told in the childish manner (or, from a view-point of a child). A lovely little book, recommendable for the adults just as well. (And, as I don't usually read much poetry, this should be enough said on this. I guess that also gives us additional good reason  select it too for these recommendations of ours.) (W-G.).

  






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(Some) suggested further readings:

  

Book cover (Biography).

Harman, Claire : Robert Louis Stevenson. A biography. (Harper Collins, 2005)

Law, Jules: There's something inhuman about Hyde. (Forum on Fiction. V.42 Iss 3, p504-510 ; DOI: 10.1215/00295132-2009-048 )

Reid, Julia: Robert Louis Stevenson and Evolutionary Science. (2002)

(...And probably there's a multitude of pages on web, devoted for Stevenson and his fiction.)

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The Undesigned Chapter, Part VI.

; The Frogs, the Hogs and '...few observations about ambiguity of eating meat'

People often find lots to talk from foods. Not surprising, for in the modern world questions of human food supply are ever increasingly discussed (Due the aspects from global warming, but also of the view-point of global equality). At most basically, food economics is rather simple. People with food, sometimes plentitudes or or overwhelmingly, find the food usually a reasons to gather together, servings and menus, discussions and jokes, ao. People with no food only would hope having some, and hardly there's chance for much else about the foods.

As we've lately had quite much to say from  food we'd obviously count  on the  former mentioned. Saying anything else would be pretending for ourself, certainly. So, at this it is aimed make some contemplations from and about food, the meats mostly. Purpose is not to offer any unflexible or very comprehensive argumentation, but individual experiences/thoughts from.

Of the human diets my personal view-points have within time turned favoring quite balanced combination. Meats in general, I think, become less suitable or less necessary part of diet the older any personnel (he or she) gets. On the other hand, I wouldn't myself at most circumstances think any solely vegetarian diet to most practical choice, at least on the current situations of my life. But, I feel the vegetables and similar make very good main basis on that diet. By coincidence, happens also that my favored 'veggies', or some I perhaps most often use, mainly contain those 'Three sisters' that N.American native agriculturalist people/tribes mainly cultivated; The beans, squash(or, 'zucchini'), and from somewhat lesser extent, maize. Of course contains some other varying alternative, too. (Not excludes the cereals/grains and some fruit, either. I guess, I'd get along mainly with those on the summers, if not just solely. Also I fx consider the (organic) milk quite inevitable and necessary for the human body. And no place for soya on my diet, except on sauces.).

I also consume meat and fish, more or less regularly. Fx, if making any heavier physical tasks, or traveling for the longer distances without any fuelled external aid (read: the car), I find meat often for a most proper and compact energy source. Appears easiest to carry along and often also burns more lastingly, if compared for most any vegetable(s).

(Generally), I also don't have too much belief on peoples capability from limiting their global consumption of animal protein in the long run. (I think) without some kind of domesticatated animals – more or less always been kept – wild animal populations would've gotten lot more harmed until the present day (...Although, in that case a human population growth wouldn't perhaps ever have  gone quite similarly,  and neither reached it's exponential levels in during  the most recent centuries, most probably). History offers lots examples from how certain formerly populous animal species may have been massively hunted and declined for their scarce remains from original natural extent (...Although, not always due from the hunt for foods.) In a world of several billion people, feels to me, it's quite impossible think any societies without some stocks of the domesticated species maintained.

...Yet, one shouldn't either dismiss from noticing various arguments against the global meat markets (like that widely spread phrase/slogan 'Meat is murder'). There's as well that popular book of this aspect by Jonathan Saffron Foer (Eating Animals,published sometime during the 2000s). From some reason I've not felt need from viewing the book on backgrounds of this discussion. (Mostly probably due from having felt myself to have learned enough from this modern mass production of foods. Or, that maybe is from due I've just felt properly enough informed from these ethical dilemmas on 'meat production chain' already, and, as it's often easier avoid thinking too profoundly the questions of the foods, bypassed it. Recommendable reading anyway, probably.)

If spending sometime on the natures it's also quite easy reach some understanding about that there being something unpleasant eating meats. Personally people perhaps might interpretate that feeling quite differently, but I understand it perfectly well (Although haven't noticed that preventing me from eating meat). More precisely - and for to loan few additional suitable sentences from Henry David Thoreau (that we've often cited recently) - there is, very certainly, something disgusting at the idea of eating animals. Words that hit, according my view, stricktly to the point on this. (...However, it's often noticeable - from what comes to the foods - humans tend be capable maintaining quite flexible attitudes. Thoreau fx equips his very unconditional sounding view with the formerly said sentences that he could eat even a muskrat, if he'd have to. He also mentions often on his walkabouts been eating elsewhere, and is not saying anything of how consistently was that principal vegetarianism maintained while visiting other peoples apartments.)

On my own 'hobbyist practise for', or  'slight likeness for vegetarianism', I often notice having quite similar feeling/dislike towards animal food - Although my attitudes aren't closely as absolute than of some other people. Fx, I happen appreciate the ducks very much, they're among most impressive birds to watch, etc. But, on the other hand, wouldn't appear too difficult for me enjoying a duck for meal. ... Probably this contradiction (the ethical view-point against my adapted attitudes/habits) doesn't feel so difficult to overcome, because from my cultural basis. Quite likely the idea from eating some smaller bird(s) would only feel unpleasant and the plate left untouched. Certainly this has some culturally based reasons, as I don't feel so much appreciation/admiration to the Pigeons, fx, even that their said been quite rudely hunted on some places. ...Of course, there's also a viewpoint from that the ducks are grown domestically to foods while some other bird species are not. But the cultural preferences also change, and over half century ago the Swans (having formerly been largely hunted) were made protected. They've also after that (at least partly due this reason) culturally been 'up-lifted' for such symbols of purity, that for most (European) people the idea from eating swan would appear completely unthinkable. Formerly, however, were quite often favored dinners at feasts or celebrations. So, it's not solely from what you are eating but also how you choose to think about what you eat.

...Of the global (meat) markets more generally, of course, appears it very easy notice that the heaviest ethical arguments arise from that massive waste of the foods. As well, hardly defendable is the unnecessity of the current  maintainance from such excessive market (of the meats), and as  the inequalities relating to that global food industry. Ecological aspects no less meaningful. Rarely people bother think about these things, but actually anyone should. So, the following merely attempts make some general ecologic summaries from basis of my view-points:

As I see that – and from personal opinions; Considering that all human uses of nutrients can't reasonably argued (from practical and historical reasons) based for vegetable foods, I'd consider best develop Hens farming (/and from other birds) to the more environmental and ethically lasting directions. The (industrial) Hog farms I'd happily see closed completely...Only said purely from personal preferences (Yet, I also fx find the sausages quite eatable. At least occasionally.) However, thinking the global ecology - and like is most often nowadays been remarked - most beneficial for environment would appear the down-scaling production for (global) beef markets, and steeply. In particular due from it's massive excess needs of the used grazing lands, field, etc. ...Also, without question and because of several ecologically sound arguments against, from it's very unhealthyness as foods, and as well on ethical basis, the  fast foods (burgers and alike) would receive as the  only judgment complete a disappearance. Definitively.

On purely ecological arguments, would perhaps also appear equally reasonable fx to say that the sheeps herding on continents where them originally were human introduced (to be kept as domesticated species) would also have to come for halt...But as I personally like some wool on clothing, it would (from this view-point) only receive similar advices from quite large downscaling. (And, as one can easily notice from this; People often tend be very inconsistent, at the same time also  quite sceptical, of  their opinions concerning various  foods. In particularly from and about  what  should appear as the healthiest - or ecologically most suitable - choices to favor.).

As I perhaps don't so much believe all these imagined ecological scenarios of mine to actually take place any time soon, probably is more realistic for only hope emergence of the less centralized and more local production. Possibly some return to the old-time traditional farming; perhaps means at best some  return for smaller production units (Although, from being a member of the urbanized modern world, I'd probably feel quite reluctant from keeping some domesticated animals myself.) Anyway, these aspects continue to become ever more important along with the prospected global population growth to be seen.  Simply because this enlargening and over-scaled 'meat-market' is presumed becoming ever more expensive, globally. Many ways also more expensive for the consumers, both from (so called) developed and developing countries.

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...On our series from Fennoscandian insect(s) and plant...

Would be quite exhaustive effort trying select representatives from each type of  environments on Fennoscandian Nature ...For those are all but similar or the resembling kind. Anyhow, this particular section aims make some brief glimpses from  the coasts and pelagic. Although, I actually rarely go for the seaside (Being less fond of the sandy banks and beaches people perhaps more commonly favor.). Maybe I should. Seasides, also rich from other life-forms, often serve even more populous environments for the  insect than any other places. Many also are quite exiting kind, and even there's various extraordinary some that not appear on elsewhere.

There's as well unique and exceptional plants on coast/isolated pelagics. At some smaller islands fx appear still some rare (often threatened) species from the genus  Botrychium (their relates for  ferns). From more common plant, typical for the seashores, one could have fx pick as our selection that impressive looking flower, Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria). Sometimes it forms large growths close by the sea. By origin a plant of the coasts but has later spread within human settlements to various watery areas inland (and now common also at lakesides). Another typical flower for the seashores - and particularly favored by the insect too - that could've been selected is the Sea Aster (Aster tripolium). And of course there's lots other.

A. Archangelica Litoralis (...probably).

But - even that I'm from this also not too certain whether identifyin' it correctly – selected plant on this (sequel) appears represent the subspecies of a better known Angelica Archangelica. It's name-giving inland species grows mostly on Lappland, and was  formerly very popularly gathered for the human uses (/still is on places). In contrary, this coastal plant (A. Archangelica, sbp litoralis) isn't palatable at all (It grows near the seawaters/on saltier ground), but it's also said to tempt a variety of insect. ...Assuming that my photo should represent this particular species, for it's little difficult say because the plant at the pic isn't flowering. Anyway, the structure of the bloomings seems to me lot resembling those related plants, that grow by various separate species on mainlands. (But, apparently, only this is known from appear solely near the Fennoscandian seasides).

...Of the insect part I must at first say this one, of course, not representing any favorite of mine. Instead of this , the most obvious selection for it's place could probably been some of the Dragonflies. However, we've already devoted some words to dragonflies at our former writings. So I'll just leave them for the mention, yet citing briefly the sentences from that Preston-Mafham book, such lively describing the Dragonfly as (smtgh like) wonders of the nature, that from millions years evolutonary adaptation to flight '...have mastered the art of the aerial slaughter to it's perfectness.' ...As dragonflies are also said catching any variety from flying insects, this offers me some hope from them keeping our selected exemplary insect species on their minim. (For these) little winged creatures appear rather nasty, did bite me badly. I guess it doesn't actually sting like the comparable smaller creatures more typical encounter from forest environments on the early summers, but I'm assuming it slightly similarly seeking blood for aid on it's increases (Also, only the females bite.) Bite feels quite resembling to that of Horse-flies (and indeed is as much painful).

This little creature discussed.

It's probably counted to  mosquitos (Culicidae) at the actual main family/group. - Like elsewhere, there's plentitudes (tens, or hundreds from) different species  of  the  mosquito on Fennoscandia, although none can carry the malaria, or other diseases, more commonly spread by them  at equatorial tropics. Other alternative insect (sub-class/a group) I could guess it for to belong for is  Nematocera (ie Thread-horned flies ...likely their not classed under the same larger group as the mosquitos). The latter also contain several species, and (apparently) both referred groups were evolved at their earliest from some ancestral genera that also later has produced the flies (Diptera).  On some obscure period during the evolutionary past, now hidden behind mist of time. ...Anyhow, the humans often serve as only the secondary sources (of blood)  for these little insect, as their mostly dependent /adapted to feed of other mammalian species. So not surprisingly, where there's some domesticated animals kept closer shoreline, there's sometimes these too. Typically, on their favored environment at coasts there often can grow some rushes.

More broadly thinking, this is only one example from the wide various ecological surveillance tactics the insects have developed. From a bit more humoristic view-point/perspectives, it's noticed that insects often serve as food sources for various larger animals and have little ways but their impressive capasity from increase to fight against. So these little blood-suckers could actually, if wish, little jokingly be described as some 'counter-strike' from this persecuted animal class. (Doesn't mean I'd like them any better than most people...) No matter if one likes this or not, ecologically them also – like the most numerous insect species – have found effective way for to flourish. As long as there exists suitable hosts - From the naturally wild stocks, or from similarly large herds of human domesticated species - them will find suitable hosts for increase on. At some places these insect 'parasites' (resembling some at least), when overpopulating, are also said occasionally  capable to driving the cattle nuts by their little bites.

Consequently, of these slight observations and with my somewhat  increased (certainly very limited) understanding about the ecology of this (particularly) annoying creature, I don't have too much faith  to those electronic or chemial solutions invented to aids for their annihilation - However, colors are often advised practical  (fx certain bright curtains, that on doors help keep most insect outside).    But even less I'm convinced by those sometimes proposed/discussed genetic solutions that would offer a way of to complete erasing these from Earth. Whether we would like it or not, 'The life will find a way', like goes the words on that phrase... (W-G.)

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Washing our footprints...

Mulskinner Hi-Tec (/Eco-product) Review XVI;  [VI / 2011] :


Sapindus Mukorossi (Soapnuts)

 

...Although, the actual product information from this is that their precisely not any nuts, but fruits of a tree by this same name (As well, there seems be various resembling trees on the genera, and of which the soapnut traditionally in the past have been gathered from, by different traditional cultures around the globe). It's an organic product, can be used on the washing machine, but also goes well for doing dishes, or washing hair.

In brief, an ecologic alternative to all those chemical cocktails invented during the passed-by years of these one-sided, ecologically unprogressive societies. (And alternative for washing powders more often advertised, and still unfortunately commonly used). ...Albeit, soapnuts also by now seem been available also to the European market/developed countries customers for some time.










Basically any ecological consumer, quite obviously, should be little cautious from anything labeled with the words from 'natural' or 'traditional', as their so popularly used these days. Just from the fact there's often pushed to markets and shops all kinds of ecological awareness products, sometimes originating from the tropics, or other distant parts of the world. At this case I feel, at least, that there's quite adequately information alongside the product - in contrary to some other 'eco-products' - as the packet fx tells of the soapnuts gathering and collecting originating from places where trees grow on their natural ecological range and that gathering isn't any manner causing harm for those (often very old, valuable) trees. And, for to convince me seems that the local dealers (of the eco/fair trade-shops) offer the soapnuts with these labelings for 'modern' consumers, ie they're adverted as the certified organics.










Also, the soapnuts seem having gained their place on a popular campaign for to save the Baltic Sea, polluted by the decades lenght continued accumulated flow from the fertilizer uses, phosphates, etc. - Not that I'd think consumers solely turning the things for better... But the plain truth is that a devoted effort from raising the national GNP's - by the consumers and producers - in the first hand brought the sea for it's present status. (Of the most part during a very short time, a few decades, or maybe during just half the century's period, about). But, anyway...










...According my experience (from some time using these soapnuts) they're every way comparable, and generally often even superior to regular washing powder. I only wash on about 30-40 C, not having any particularly 'dirty laundry' to deal with, but the resultative was always as much satisfying as with washing powders that I formerly was using. (From allergies part is little difficult say, 'cause it may vary according personnel ...so I sometimes consider whether I still should keep some washing powder in the store, fx for underwears and similar - but so far I've not noticed any irritation on skin from the soapnuts).






Better for ecosystem (although the amount from using of washing machine stays practically the same). Not even formerly did I ever need to wash on warmer temperatures, thanks by the advice from my assistant on this laundry business...Sounds obvious but it's actually aspect I'd perhaps not had noticed without that advice. From the dishes part, I guess I'll still rely for that ecologic washing liquid, that was on sometimes earlier presented on our recommends; (Meaning Ecover).






Both also seem have a clear advantage in comparison for the stuffs frequently adverted on TV: These (organically) degradable alternatives are cheaper.
(…In particular as a sales information also advices use them cautiously, fx with the same few soapnuts you can wash the laundry for couple of times; Tested and proven, certainly you can. - Go and make a resembling simple test from lastability with those aforementioned chemial washing cocktails, if wish...And guess what you'd find?)










Finally, making liquid washing powder from soapknuts indeed also did appeared very easy; Seems adviced that you only need heat about 50 g with a litre from water, let that boil to about one minute and then lowering heat, let stay to some 10 minutes. Distil the result for suitable bottle. Seems it also adviced to keep at (relative) cold because on the housewarm temperatures liquid might during some time start spoil (mildew).


Happy washing... (G-W.)

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Of the trees, plants and insects...

 

Seems that this sequel on our serie from the insect (and plant) enlarged for such many paragraphs,  it's sensible devote this post completely for it. Other topics on separate stories, with more available space, etc. In combined, we have this time three species;  Tree, plant and the insect. Them go nicely together. (But the aim is not represent so many at each chapter.)

Pinus Sylvestris
(Example from a typical
young-growth tree)

 [Scot's Pine]
...Appears difficult (but not completely impossible), to think any other tree that would make such characteristic part of Fennoscandian landscapes than Pine, Pinus sylvestris (or; the Scot's Pine, a reader can notice the English naming manner also of this example...). It is not just from reason this (sole) species of the pines making almost half from all the Fennoscandian woodlands, currently. As well culturally the ('Scot's') Pine from many ways has always been tied in the history of people at N.Europes.


The P.Sylvestris can typically live for 250 years at the most (But in certain cases even double that time. And typically grows even slower and longer in the colder climate at Lapplands). Due that Pine is a species that tolerates largest variety from different environment, it is the commonest tree on Fennoscandia. Grows as well on places with relative much moisture and, more typically on forest heathlands. Equally common on higher elevations/hillsides. The only main prerequisitive to Pine is the adequate amount from sunlight.

 It can persist on such various environments so well because it's roots reach for wide-ranging area in the ground. Pine also forms symbiotic relations - called mycorrhiza - with the large number from fungi. Generally their species you can find to see from forest floor-level. Although, there's also variety other forms of; All fungi have larger rootgrowths below the surface (More precisely view of the preceding link, fx). Association of the Pine's roots with fungus permits the tree better having inevitable nutrients and water of the soil.

Pine always has been favored on human uses and on the modern forestry because it grows to a direct upward trunk. Makes it also practical on most tasks that require wood material. Pine grows almost as long as the Spruce (Picea abies), and little faster, so it is often considered more usable and flexible saw-wood material. However, in the different places Pines can as well grow for quite different kind; Beside the clifftops or on otherways rocky hillsides(fx), the trees are often smaller and appear from more various shapes, trunk turning to more varying forms. Also at different conditions from soil, fx on wet marshland, full-grown Pines sometimes seem surprisingly small, can be just little over meter in lenght.

People also often like walking on Pine forests because it's easy to see for longer distance there. Typically drier heaths where the ground mainly grows fx berries (blueberry, lingonberry), with similar smaller plants/shrubs. The air on the pinewoods is also said very healthy, which is from that the tree secrecates chemial particles that have the effect from killing  bacteria. Due the same reason it's needles, resin and various other parts from Pine have been manufactured at medicinal uses since the early prehistorical time. (Are still in similar uses today, by some part).

Doesn't, necessary, make me too impressed from modern cultivated Pine woods. The (modern) Fennoscandian forests often shows itself as a maintained landscape - At worst planted woods of the stricktly ordered form. ...So it's also easy imagine how much of the natural variety of the landscape actually has disappeared. As the trees nowadays are often maintained to economic purposes, and often the harvesting interval is about 60-80 years (at most), the resulted ecology (on a large part from) Pine forests is far from the natural. Typically continuous harvesting leaves it's traces on forest ground which are just boring to watch. Leftover twigs and cut remainders of the trees drying out in the piles can make walking at places unpleasant (...Albeit shallow plants relative soon grow even from under those). Those marks, of course, are temporary; In some places the faster growing trees coppices can cover those in a matter of some years, at the best circumstances - And, until the area is again cleaned/reshaped with machinery and man).

Already on the past centuries of a more 'traditional forest uses', Pine was very favored tree in the human purposes. In during the 19th century, trade from it's tar made the most important product at N.European market. The tar could be extracted by burning resinuous trunks and stomps of the Pine on large pit. Practice, clearing woods for it's manufacture, is said often been even more destructive to the forest ecology than the modern uses - As there also was at the time more of the actual natural forests left. Tar was so much in demand as the undersides from Ocean-going vessels (and regular boats) were frequently needed layered with tar to keep them on sailing condition. (Among it's other uses, various wooden tools were covered with tar to make them resistent for moisture. Most went for the export, of course.) Seems said that effects on forests used from that (making of tar) are still seen on regions. Closer some coastal areas the older Pine forests largerly disappeared prior the 20th century and then became replaced by the younger growths of Spruce.

More overally, nowadays it's not the scarcity or disappearance that probably would at first sight catch the view of any casual observer of the Pinewoods. Even today quite much of the natural (Fennoscandian) woodland ecology exists, although it is been converted and changed on most places, sometimes more severely (think about the drainaged marshland, and/or those planted and heavily harvested forestries. Both are mentioned on this instance since any human brought influences have the capability affect to environments on a longer momentum - And any conversion of environments/natural recovery seems appear a process from the decades scale, at least. Often  centuries.) 

On a walk you can also fx wonder and look around on a seemingly very natural looking woodland, growing some (quite) large trees. Then you glance for a place to rest a while and notice the old stomps, almost decayed and covered by the moss now. If you look closer as well other old marks from the human efforts may show, and a more trained eye soon, probably would recover lots more, older 'tracks' from similar kind. (Newer marks and tracks of course appear more apparent and visible.)

Forest cultivation (history) on Fennoscandias often deserves it's best mention from that the nonendemic (*) tree species were never planted - justifiedly so, as on many places that's said brought the most harms, seen causing fx  the impoverishment on  soils, increases of erosion,  ao similar ecological harms.
Yet, something very clearly is missing. Not necessarily the animals (fx, insects on a suitable season sometimes appear as plentiful as latitudes can permit, and  larger species aren't that expectable to so often show themselves - except from the birds).  It is not even of the plants (certainly diminished, some appearing more limited ranges, but still showing quite various kinds). Perhaps not solely even from those forest roads been built almost everywhere on S.Fennoscandias. - More likely it's from the all above discussed aspects; Smthg having to do with the declines of  randomness and of ecological diversity.

(Perhaps apparent also that),  I've never even much preferred the tree in question. That actually originates not from any logical reason for and in spite of all those respectable characteristics of it: Pine certainly has  lot of ecological importance, it has been of great importance culturally, economically was earlier as much a source of richness as it is today (once also made an important source for foods at times of scarcity). Yet, personally, and as long as I can remember, I've always disliked it. Too much of anything has the effect from bringing alongside a scarcity of something else, more or less so also on this case...

[Heather] ...As this sequel represents even two plant species, here's also few words from Heather (Calluna vulgaris). It's a common subshrub plant, recognized by most people of it's colourful Autumn blooming. Seems it said from relative early having benefited from human impacts on Natures (the West European heaths actually are said mostly formed as followings to the clear cutting of former woodlands). On Autumn the cultivated species from Heathers are commonly at sales on garden shops. From this forest plant the 'Natural Apotheket' even mentions it's flowerings being usable for making some relaxing Tea (Not all species from heathers proper to use for, and only the petals from flowers, not the other parts).

Heather makes important source of nectar to many insects. Bumble-bees (and alike) frequently visit, although interestingly it's said the smaller insects actually taking care of the plants pollination. Typically pioneering species, it commonly grows on European pinewoods/open heath. Similarly like the Pine, is also quite demanding from light. A colourful ground-mats of the heather, on Autumn, can best be seen either on the older forests, or at very recently cleared areas. ...Seems said it is mainly tolerant of forests younger than 20 or older to 70 years – because of the need from much sunlight). Maybe that also is reason for that - little surprisingly - Heather is mentioned to have generally lost of the total area of growth on Fennoscandia during past 50 years. That's because, at least partially, from the forests are more densely growing the trees, nowadays.

Still amongst some from commonest plants at forests, Heather also has the capability of growing on quite various lands (usually on drier grounds, but also fx on more moisturic places like marshes). It also relative effectively can gain new places of growth. Seems it even mentioned capable - for a limited period of time - from slowing down the growth of smaller trees. Heather can therefore persist somewhat longer on places where growth of the trees otherways would soon deprive it from it's needed light. But in time fx typical berries and other more shadowy tolerant plant then start replace it.
 [No pics from, because the plant appears quite difficult photograph, acc. my experiments...]



[Cerceris arenaria] ...Quite several paragraphs were devoted to those most representative forests plants, so this now leaves us just little space for the insect example. Like was promised before, it's a hymenopteran this time (Quite a justified selection, as those all in all make the largest group from the Fennoscandian insects.) In addition to the commonest (better known) social bees, there's multitudes from solitary species, although most are not so often seen. Predative species make a respectable amount from them, containing fx  the Spider Wasps (the name derives from their habit for catching and paralyzing spiders) . The prey is  drag for the nesting hole, and  the emerging offspring later  feeds on that. Also, there's fx the Field digger wasp (Mellinus arvensis), that catches flies. And the European Beewolf, which - like  the related genera on it's genus - specializes on various bees (...To name a few). Most predative  hymenopteran belong to the Vespoidea, ie they are related genera for social wasps.





The species discussed on beside paragraphs... 



If my guess is correct – although, like said there's lots quite similar looking species – this exemplary species (in the pic) would be Cerceris arenaria (Although, I wasn't finding any English name for it). In that case, would represent example of a species specialized on catching Snout beetles (Curculionidae). Adult is mentioned to prey an amount of those, the larvae then later emerging feeds on them. Adults however - like the other solitary hymenopteran usually - are said feed on the pollen from flowering plants. (I guess) it's not quite unlike encountering the species at the open Pine forest, although at a place I noticed it was bushes beside small road, mostly a sunnier area growing forest flowers and various larger vegetation. Perhaps it's more expectable area to seek these species, often (on such places) there's also places where solitary hymenopteran typically can make their nesting.



Like most from Vespoidea, it seems quite slenderly built. Also has little similar looking yellow stripings. Lot smaller species than the common social wasps, though. (....Whatever this species exactly, like said, could quite as well represent some other predative hymenopteran. If you know from it's precise identification, can offer me that...).

(W-G.)

 * ...However, because endemic, strictly speaking, is mentioned a term referring for species which appear just on (certain) eco-region (/or, particular environments) and nowhere else, it is noted that a more proper word to use at this would be the introduced tree species that not appear on forests/natural environments by origin, prior the human impacts...
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Comparison from (some) Sweeteners...

For a change, this makes brief comparison between some natural sweeteners. The idea of it, of course, originated from nowadays rather usually discussed aspect; Human agriculture often favors a limited number from plant. Typically described as creation of monocultures (at least environmentally speaking/biologist often use the word). One doesn't have to look too far, but fx some from most commonly cultivated plants, fx wheat (w. some other favored cereal), rice, sugarbeet/-cane, soya, coffee, etc. (From more recent timing also often there's mention of various sources to biofuels, (fx) maize, palm oils, etc.) ...Of course, this is a selective list, to which quite a few other plant could be added.)

Maybe worth noticing also that sugar grown in the MSW appears cultivated from the domestic sugarbeets, while some from alternatives 'offered' here are imports. Ecologically makes therefore not that much of a difference...But, on the other hand, many from mentioned as well are lot healthier alternatives.

So, we're here mainly comparing some alternatives for (/from) the sugars. Energy and carbohydrates listed on basis of information from product packages - So that likely differs a little between different products manufactured of the same sweetener (Regular sugar seems said to contain 1700 Kj / 400 ckal and 100 g Carbohydrates [Cbhr] on 100 gram) ;

Honey
(what else; ...it contains): 1400 kj/335 kcal energy /Cbhr: 82 g)

Honey, of course, is recommended from it's many healthy qualities. As the insects make it, it's a natural product indeed (Actually, I don't even consider bees completely domesticated animals for they spend large part of their tasks away from the human kept nest). Also, I'm not so convinced from the bee-keeping being that environmentally benefiting than sometimes adverted, because bees often are maintained for pollinating certain plants in cultivation. Depends completely from the scale of it, of course...And, bees do appear important pollination agents in Nature.

There's various different labels from honey; Products may differ fx from what the main source plant of bees, whether the product is imported or is it homegrown, etc - Seems fx mentioned that some made by the bees visiting flowerings of the Lime (Tilia) has always been very appreciated among nest-keepers...Bees also are kept very widely cultivated around most everyplace and there's variety from spiced honey as well.
So, for sweetener it serves well and I often tend use honey on teas, fx. Less suitable to some other foodstuff, perhaps, but I guess I'd probably use honey anyway just because of it being so healthy.

Agave-Syrup
(1249 kj/298 kcal; Cbhr: 77 g)

...To the contrary, isn't been on commercial manufactures very long (apparently). Squeezed (apparently?) from cactus (/and related plants?). I find this quite tasty too and makes even lighter alternative as a sweetener on various uses. Taste might need a little getting used to.  Fair trade product and sold in liquid form. And, it's not bad at all either; As the only negative aspect I find, appears that packaging is on plastic bottles (Although, that feels quite practically manufactured so it can have some other uses after been emptied...)

Maple-Syrup
(1140 kj/270 kcal; Cbhr: 67 g - Only 62 actual sugar)

...Likewise this also is advertised among healthiest from natural sugars. Made of the sap from (Canadian) Sugar Maples, Acer Saccharum, (which contains 5-7 per cent sugar).

Seems as well that around the 19th century when most sugar was made from Sugarcane, sugar prices peaked and also sap from European maples (Norwegian maple, A. Platanoides, which contains 3-4 per cent sugar) was commonly manufactured. Noticeably, it was during imperialistic era and the trade market, when most sugar to Europe was at the time imported from colonies. After the sugarbeet farming gained ground, probably more commonly around the end of 19th century, also production from the sugar maples declined. [Acc. The book History of Foods (2003) the cane- and beet-sugars becoming  the dominant sweeteners in the World, particularly the production from sugarbeet, is quite recent phenomenom - For an interested there seems be somewhat lengthier paragraphs from this subject on that book; Of the history of sugar-making, development of it's techniques and the trade throughout the modern times, See (from) the online version of it].

...Even that the Maples syrup appears often recommended w. pancakes and similar, I find that not any particular favorite dessert of mine. But well, so tasty with the ice cream every once in a while...

Fructose
(1692 kj/398 kcal; Cbhr: 100 g)

The amounts from energy and carbohydrates in Fructose seem almost the same as from usual sugar. Also taste is generally quite similar. Main difference is that one needs add that only about 1/3 less (Fructose is actually somewhat sweeter from taste). Other meaningful aspect is that it's as well healhier in comparison to regular sugar (Yet, seems it sometimes advised that one shouldn't consume but a limited amount from Fructose at daily uses...); Comes on a solid form (granulated sugar), so can be used quite easily.

Birch-sugar
(1000 kj/240 kcal; Cbhr: 100 g)

...This locally manufacured variable(/product) is also sold on granulated form. This too is manufactured of a tree, from Birch (Betula pendula). Doesn't taste much like sugar, actually hasn't the same sweetness at all. But, as well mentioned 100 per cent Xylitol, and therefore not negatively affects the teeth ...Which is, in fact, quite meaningful aspect. So I'd probably favor this too, at least every once in a while.

There could've been some other manufactured alternatives, very probably (Also fx variety from different products manufactured of the sugarcanes). - But, due that this was mainly to recommend some alternatives from sugars, seems it also sometimes advertised the Coconut Sugar (it's not the same product as the sugar palm, however) from some of it's benefits from manufactures (and the healtniness on uses), especially due that (it's said) lot lesser water uses needed  on it's manufactures (than on cane sugar production) ...However, I've not more especially checked of it, or had that product available/tested on this comparison from natural sweeteners, so just said in passing...

But, summa summarum, conclusively I find I can probably have a place for any of these, there's some proper usages for each of them - Birch-sugar and syrups mostly would go w. tea, rarer on baking; Honey has many uses, also on desserts (sometimes); And fructose simply is similar of use as the sugar, it also is a bit cheaper than most from these...).
(...And, additionally feels to me also of some importance remark that I actually consider sugars necessary for the uses of human body, etc. - Ever if exercising any physically demanding 'sports' it is of proper need, fx. The bestway to gain the lost energy would probably be eating some sugarine fruit(s), but often bar of cholocate or other sweets does the purpose adequate well; at least acc. my experience from (Unless not eating those too regularly, of course - I'll let you choose the amount yourself...:) Like often is talked from, people in the developed world generally use too much sugar, and the similar expected to take place on most countries with raising levels of living standard...) ...Like it was earlier remarked they're (,ie these 'natural sugars', not the chocolate bars or sweets) also somewhat healthier alternatives to sugar. So, in the end of it, we just notice that common wisdom 'Variety is the spice in life'. (W -G.)

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Oak; The leaf and a few acorn.
(Acorns were gathered for food on prehistoric times.)



...Because it's now an occasional custom representing these examplaries from Fennoscandian nature in pairs (ie some plant and insect species at the same), we have a few here. For the main part of this was devoted to sweeteners, would've perhaps been more suitable select fx (Norwegian) Maples (Acer platanoides) for this too....But I guess the Zeus won't mind too much if these paragraphs are from the (English) Oak (Quercus robur) instead; (Also, little funnily, seems it being that the English common names for some trees are based on country names, in spite of that both of these tree, fx, are found pretty common from grow on much larger regions of Europes)
...Anyway, Oak(s) are trees at a family of beeches (Facaceae), and on mid-Europe grows numerous species, but only this singular one (Q.Robur) is said originally to grow on Fennoscandia. As for some of their qualities/characteristics the Oaks - in particular the Sessile Oak (Q.petraea) and Q.Robur - fx are mentioned rather resistent to moisture and so they've lot been used on construction works since long-time past. In the former days it was so popular on ship-building of the reason that wood from Oak only becomes stronger and more compact when kept in contact with water.



Even (much) further on times at the pasts - after latest Ice ages - seems the Downy Oak, Q. Pubescens, actually been a tree that consisted the largest part on forests at Central Europes. Later, with the slight warmer climates, Beech (Fagus sylvatica) seems much gained on it's places. Like also renown, Oaks have always been very appreciated trees; Not only by the ancient Greeks, but (ao) Teutonic (German) tribes and Celts associated it for their highest deities. Also has enjoyed appreciated status in Christian religious means.….Culturally one can also think from that often imaginative, little horrifying picture from a (very) old tree - on popular literatures, comics and cartoons, fx. Unless that (image) isn't borrowed from the looks of an old Spruce, or Yew, it most often appears drawn resembling the old Oak.



From it's current overall range the English Oak seems cover most of the Central and S. Europes. However, and like often typical for human uses of the nature, trees positive 'status' wasn't in the past enough from preventing it's overuses. In fact, seems that at many places - at the world and Europe - the human history also tells from an exhaustive uses of the Oak(-forests). Fennoscandia is no exception, although Oak grows there on it's ecological Northest edges. (Pretty) much like elsewhere best part from the original (natural) Oak-forests were exploited already during  the 17th/18th centuries. (...Although, the past use of Oak/changes on landscape during the centuries may have been somewhat more limited than on many places, largely due the above said reason. And, also from reason that human settlement appears lot younger than on most parts of Europe; Earliest traces from human agricultures at Fennoscandias are said date back to only about 3000 years - So, the trees actual natural extent, preceding that human brought alteration from landscapes, is maybe little difficult from estimating precisely.)



Whatever the  timing, or scale that migh have proceded,  larger parts was converted to sowing fields (Groves and other places where Oaks would grow often made best fertile lands), and some as well went to construction purposes. Not much surprisingly lots also was used to the ship-building, as the Sails were the main armament of the emerging countries with coastal line on Baltic sea (ie that was about 17th century onwards). Because of the growing need for material to this - and from somewhat lesser extent to other purposes - still as late as the early 19th century it was planted cultivated Oak-forests on parts of Scandinavia (by the Crown). ...Wich wasn't ever adequate for halting the demand from exceeding  the supply. Yet, some of those planted forests still survive and are said become somewhat aged by now.

In brief it makes quite typical an example from human exhaustive uses of the 'resource'. (However, originating from those planted forests, as well from the Oak been commonly planted on roadsides, parks and gardens, it is said that singular trees/small patches now grow on a more Northern range than the tree naturally would appear.) Conclusively maybe is also worth noting that Oak wasn't a sole hardwood tree of which the natural forests were extensively consumed on human uses even before the beginnings from our modern era - or, the times of  "so called" economic forestry practices.



Ecologically Oak is said an important tree to many species; In fact no other tree on N. Europes hosts so many insects. It's said that very old trees – Oaks can grow to 1000 years, but on North the average maxim seems closer smthg like 500 – offer living environments to a countless number. Some of those species wouldn't even appear on Fennoscandian Nature otherways (fx, from Finlands regional are 9 species of butterfly/moth seem said from increasing solely on Oak). Acorns of Oak are as well very nutrient rich - They contain 390 kcal per 100 g; And 30-60 per cent starch, 10 per cent sugar. (So them are harvested by several larger animals.)

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Araniella cucurbitina
(Hanging on gossamers between leafs
of the Oak-sapling)

...Likewise than  from the plant selection, of the insects perhaps most proper choice on this would've been some Hymenopteran species (ants, bees, wasps, ao) - as the main part from this was devoted to sugars. But this time it's a Spider (...yes, very stricktly speaking they're not insects, but don't let that be an obstacle...). Spiders appear very numerous from species on most parts of World. For a selection on this, fx the Araneus diadematus (the species renown from it's elaborate web), would've made nice choice. Or, some of the flower-spiders, they're even said capable from changing their color during a few days time, (between yellow and white). Anyway, this example on pic (mostly probably is) Araniella cucurbitina ('Green Cucumber Spider')...Selected since it's said  commonly appearing on forested regions, and mentioned found on places (ao?) where there grows some Oak. Bright from colour and quite symmetrical by look (Perhaps little horrifying too...)
...And it was there by purpose: After mating the female is said rolling its eggs (offpsring) within the leafs and remaining on guard there. ; Similarly like the Oaks, spiders easily exceed human time-scales, before there was most of the now present organisms(/animals), there already were the spiders... (G.U.J.)