September 2, 2026

This plant is Chapman's Blazing Start

It blooms in summer and fall 

It's at its peak September through October

And has no tolerance for salt at all. 

Location: St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

Sources: https://www.fnps.org/plant/liatris-chapmanii#gsc.tab=0

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

September 1, 2026

We are known as Cuban Treefrogs

Our big strong legs help us strut

And the suction cups on our toes

Keep us from falling on our butts.

Location: My bedroom window

Sources: https://ask.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/UW259

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 31, 2026

We are Andean Ibises

We're in a different genus than the White

We're larger and arguably prettier

And are Near Threatened due to our population size.

Location: Antisana Ecological Reserve, Quijos EC-Napo, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/bkfibi2/cur/introductionv

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 30, 2026

I am a Slate-Throated Redstart

I'm one of many subspecies, widespread

My tummy's yellow in Ecuador

I've no clue what for

But elsewhere it's orange or red.

Location: San Miguel de Los Bancos--Mirador Río Blanco, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/sltred/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 29, 2026

I am known as a Green Jay

Though only my back and wings are green

I'm otherwise yellow with a blue and black face

My crown color changes based on where I'm seen.

(There are many subspecies of the Green Jay, and the crown color changes based on locale.)

Location: Cosanga, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/grnjay/cur/systematics

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 28, 2026

I am an Orange-billed Sparrow

I live in humid tropical forests

My bright orange beak

Is somewhat unique

Among sparrows, I'm a non-conformist.

Location: Sendero Frutti Tour & Birdwatching, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/orbspa1/cur/identification

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 27, 2026

I am a Yellow-Throated Toucan

For Identification, my color's material - 

I am black and yellow, with a bi-colored beak

Unlike the rainbow-beaked bird on Froot Loops Cereal.

Location: Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/bkmtou1/cur/appearance

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 26, 2026

I am a Golden-olive Woodpecker

Probably subspecies rubripileus, based on where I was seen

My head is red, and my breast bars are black and

My back and wings are golden-olive green.

Location: Sendero Frutti Tour & Birdwatching, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/goowoo1/cur/systematics

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 25, 2026

I am a Glistening-green Tanager

I can be found in Columbia and Ecuador

My plumage is shiny, glittering green

Appropriately enough, it's what I'm named for.

Location: Reserva Amagusa, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/glgtan1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 24, 2026

I am a Moss-backed Tanager

My head is big with a thick, stubby bill

My face is blue and my back is moss-green

And my song's described as "...a rattling trill.

Location: Reserva Amagusa, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/.../mobtan1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 23, 2026

I am known as a Rusty-Margined Flycatcher

Named for the rusty patch on my wing

I've a yellow belly and white eyebrow and chin

And a tiny yellow patch on my head, just for bling.

Location: Sachatamia Lodge, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/.../rumfly1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 22, 2026

I am a Pale-edged Flycatcher

My outer rectrices are edged in pale yellow

Rectices are my tail feathers

Which help me fly in the direction I want to go. 

Location: Cabañas San Isidro, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/.../paefly1/cur/introduction

https://www.birdsoutsidemywindow.org/.../anatomy-retrices/

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 21, 2026

I am a female Yellow Garden Spider

Males don't get anywhere close to this big

I'm large and bulky like a might old oak

My mate's just a skinny little twig.

Location: St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

Sources: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Argiope_aurantia/

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 20, 2026

I am a female Clark's Spiny Lizard

If I was male, I'd have blue on my belly and chin

I live in elevations from 3000-6000 feet

And I lay up to 20 eggs in the spring.

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Arivaca Cienega Nature Trail, Arivaca, AZ

Sources: https://reptilesofaz.org/lizards-subpages/h-s-clarkii/

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 19, 2026

I am a Desert Blonde Tarantula

My mating process is a little strange. 

The male weaves and then fills a purse with sperm

Then the female carries it till she's ready to lay eggs

She then fertilizes the eggs herself

Using the sperm purse in which the eggs bathe.

(I guess that's cheaper than buying her a Louis Vuitton bag, but considering that she will lay up to 1000 eggs, spiderling support must be outrageously expensive!)

Thanks to special guest photographer and my sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Arivaca Cienega Nature Trail, Arivaca, AZ

Sources: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Aphonopelma_chalcodes/

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 18, 2026

I am an Arizona Mountain Kingsnake

David took this photo, but I'm not on his arm

My stinky musk is the worse thing about me, but

Some people mistake me for a Coral snake and do me harm.

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Chiricahua Mountains, AZ

Sources: https://www.zooamerica.com/animals/arizona-mountain-kingsnake/

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 17, 2026

I am known as a Red Crossbill 

So named for my misaligned beak

I use it to gather seeds from

Cones of conifer trees.

As described in the article, sometimes they also gather grit from the ground. If you click on David's video below, they appear to be gathering grit from the side of a stone building. 

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Check out this super cool video, also taken by David. https://youtu.be/in0VW_Dsp20

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Restroom wall, Rustler Park in Chiricahua Mountains, AZ

Sources: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red_Crossbill/id
Check out this super cool video, also taken by David. https://youtu.be/in0VW_Dsp20

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 16, 2026

I am a Pygmy Nuthatch

Climbing pine trees is something I enjoy

I'm highly social

And when I get vocal

I make a squeaky-toy noise.

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Barfoot Park in Chiricahua Mountains

Sources: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Pygmy_Nuthatch/id

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 15, 2026

I am a Western Bluebird

I'm mostly an insectivore but I'll also eat mealworms

My songs tend to have a few "kew' notes

But are not known to have meaningful words.

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Rustler Park in Chiricahua Mountains, AZ

Sources: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Western_Bluebird/overview

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 14, 2026

I am a Hooded Oriole

I sew my hanging nest to palm fronds

My voice is scratchy and variable

Unlike other, sweeter Oriole songs. 

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Portal, AZ

Sources: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Hooded_Oriole/sounds

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 13, 2026

I am a Sulphur-bellied Flycatcher

I'm large with lemon-yellow underparts

I hunt for insects during breeding season

Which gives me buggy smelling farts. 

Thanks to special guest photographer and sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: South Fork, Cave Creek Chiricahaua Mountains. AZ

Sources: https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Sulphur-bellied_Flycatcher/lifehistory

Photo © 2026 David Simpson and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 12, 2026

I am a Beyer’s Jewel Scarab

I'm pale green and my legs are lavender-blue

I have the smallest range of Arizona Jewel Beetles

But I can be found in New Mexico and Mexico too.

Thanks to today's special guest photographer and my sweetheart, David Simpson.

Location: Miller Canyon Hereford, AZ

Sources: https://arthurevans.wordpress.com/2010/09/27/reflections-on-arizonas-jewel-scarabs-part-1/

Photo © 2026  David Simpson, text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 11, 2026

I am known as a Harris's Hawk

I live in a social unit of up to 7 birds

We have sophisticated hunting strategies

To catch bunnies, other birds, and ground squirrels.

Location: Pedro Vicente Maldonado, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/hrshaw/cur/foodhabits

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 10, 2026

I am light morph Broad-winged Hawk

In Ecuador, I'm probably not breeding

I breed further north, mostly in the US

In spring I join a hawk flock, you might see us leaving.

(As described in the referenced article, the Broad-winged Hawk is one of the few North American raptors that migrates in flocks.)

Location: Refugio Paz de las Aves (Angel Paz), Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/brwhaw/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 9, 2026

I am a Purple-bibbed Whitetip

But I'm female, so I a lack a purple bib

I've a white tip on my tail, where my mate has a spot

But he still likes the cut of my jib.

Location: Sachatamia Lodge, Mindo, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/pubwhi1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 8, 2026

I am a Green-backed Hillstar

My tummy is grey, and my tail’s white and bronze

I have blue neck and my back is green

And “tseee, tsing” are the notes of my song.

Location: La Brisa hummingbird feeders, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/whthil3/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 7, 2026

I am a male (Green) Crowned Woodnymph

You know I'm male cause I have a forked tail

My crown and belly color vary

Based on my location and if I'm male or female.

(This bird has many plumage variations and subspecies.) 

Location: Sendero Frutti Tour & Birdwatching, Nanegalito, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/crowoo1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 6, 2026

I am a female Great Sapphirewing Hummingbird

If I were male, my chest would be greenish-blue

You can find me in the slopes of the Andes

From Venezuela to southern Peru.

Location: Reserva Yanacocha, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/gresap1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 5, 2026

I am an Astylus bonplandi

Unlike most Astylus species, you can find me in the páramo

That means that I live above the forest line 

But below the line where it snows.

Location: Quito, Ecuador

Sources: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/277012785_A_contribution_to_the_genus_Astylus_Laporte_de_Castelnau_1836_in_Ecuador_with_descriptions_of_three_new_species_Coleoptera_Melyridae

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P%C3%A1ramo#/media/File:Paramos.JPG

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 7, 2026

I am a male (Green) Crowned Woodnymph

You know I'm male cause I have a forked tail

My crown and belly color vary

Based on my location and if I'm male or female.

(There are many plumage variations and the specific subspecies are still under discussion.) 

Location: Sendero Frutti Tour & Birdwatching, Nanegalito, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/crowoo1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 4, 2026

I am a a Northern Warrior Wasp

And we're called that for a very good reason

We defend our nest by loudly beating on it

And if you don't run, you are the one who is beaten. 

Location: Refugio Paz de Las Aves, Nanegalito, Ecuador

Sources: https://www.discoverwildlife.com/animal-facts/insects-invertebrates/warrior-wasp-sting

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 3, 2026

I am an Ennya sobria

I'm in the Treehopper family 

I'm diurnal, so I'm active during the day

And I'm an herbivore, hence I hop in the trees.

Location: Via Cosanga Caucheras Kilometro 3, Cosanga, Ecuador

Sources: https://eol.org/pages/22166275

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 2, 2026

I am a Paratriarius becki

In the Galerucinae family

I have only been recently described

So there's not much written info about me. 

(Still trying to find details for this one - mine is one of of only two observations of this beetle on iNaturalist.)

Location: Quijos, Ecuador

Sources: https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/1520630-Paratriarius-becki

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

August 1, 2026

I am a male Red Peacock Butterly

If I were female, I'd be bigger and orange-yellow

I've small scales on my wings for thermoregulation

Which helps keep me comfy and mellow.

Location: Mindo, Ecuador

Sources: https://sta.uwi.edu/fst/lifesciences/sites/default/files/lifesciences/images/Anartia%20amathea%20-%20Scarlet%20Peacock%20Butterfly.pdf

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 31, 2026

I am known as a Hypanartia dione dione
As a larvae I built 4 shelters

I used the shelters to molt through 6 instars

And now I'm off on butterfly adventures.

Location: Refugio Paz de las Aves, Ecuador

Sources: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/267806353_The_life_history_of_Hypanartia_dione_dione_Lepidoptera_Nymphalidae_in_northeastern_Ecuador

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 30, 2026

I am an Amastus coccinator

I'm in the Arctiini tribe

Arctiini is based on the greek word for "bear"

Cause as a larva I had a cute furry hide.

Location: Cosanga Napo, Cosanga, Ecuador

Sources: https://www.bugguide.net/node/view/39181

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 29, 2026

I am a Periclina syctaria

I'm in the family of Geometer Moths

When I was young I was known as an "inchworm"

Not cause of my size, but the way that I walk.

Location: Quijos, Ecuador

Sources: https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Geometridae/

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 28, 2026

I am a known as a Red-spotted Newt

I'm in the terrestrial adult stage of life

As an egg and larva I lived in the water

To where I'll return to find a breeding site.

Special thanks to today's first time guest photographer, Sammy McGee!

Location: Greybeard Mountain Trail Montreat, NC

Sources: https://www.virginiaherpetologicalsociety.com/amphibians/salamanders/red-spotted-newt/index.php

Photo © 2026 Samantha McGee and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 27, 2026

I am a Tawny-bellied Hermit

My beak is long and curved

I used it to catch arthropods and drink nectar

Conservation-wise, I'm a species of least concern.

Location: La Brisa (hummingbird feeders), Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/tabher1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 26, 2026

I am a male White-booted Racket-tail

I’ve a long tail, and large white leg puffs

My mate has a short tail and much smaller boots

But for me, she is more than enough!

Location: Sachatamia Lodge, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/boorat1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 25, 2026

I am a Giant Hummingbird

My beak is black, straight and stout

You might be confused by this photo, 

My beak is not curved, that’s my tongue sticking out!

Location: Antisana Ecological Reserve, Quijos, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/giahum1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 24, 2026

I am a Purple-throated Woodstar

Though my throat can look black in flight

You will just have to trust me it’s glittery purple

When you catch me in just the right light!

(The female is shown in the second photo)

Location: Sachatamia Lodge, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/putwoo1/cur/introduction

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 23, 2026

We are in the summer doldrums in Florida right now. Let's resume our (paused but not forgotten) Ecuador trip!

I am a male White-Whiskered Hermit

I am known to feed by trap-lining

This means that have a series of flowers I visit

At regular intervals for my nectar fine dining.

Location: Rio Silanche Bird Sanctuary, Ecuador

Sources: https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/whwher1/cur/introduction#repro

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30585437/

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4242162/Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 22, 2026

I am a Lesser Meadow Katydid

As the name suggests, I live in meadows and fields

I like to eat insects, flowers, and seeds

Whatever the meadow shall yield.

Location: Fellsmere Rd, Sebastian

Sources: https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/118890-Conocephalus

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.

July 21, 2026

I am a juvenile Gopher Tortoise

I'm about the size of the toes on Dee's boot

Despite the odds, I've lived past the hatchling stage

Now I'll spend 60 years keeping house and in mating pursuit.

Location: St. Sebastian River Preserve State Park

Sources: https://savethetortoises.org/blogs/tortoise-tracks-conservation-journeys/from-hatchling-to-adult-the-life-stages-of-gopher-tortoises

Photo and text © 2026 Dee Fairbanks Simpson

If you are reading and enjoying this blog, please consider supporting me on Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/deeat8am, or purchase my current book, The Rhyming Guide to Florida Spiders (details at https://deeateightam.blogspot.com/p/rhyming-guide-to-florida-spiders-now.html). Thank you for being a reader and friend of Dee at 8 A.M.