CNC 2023 Exceptional Observations

I like this one, Aaron. https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159426116

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/158892122

I found two of these beauties. They both were females, so I can't id to species. These are probably Ochterus banksi, but until I find a male I can't say with any certainty.

Also this tree:

https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/157956063

This green ash is apparently critically endangered.

Slimpod Venus' looking glass
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159874198

Well I'm always glad to see any of the "cute" plovers, so
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/158188084

Lazuli was a particularly good bird for McLennan area, though Missy got a way better shot of one than I did
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159052820

Wish we could've gotten photos of the Black-capped and Golden-cheeked, including the GC I found in McLennan on the way home, but I'm glad this season I've finally gotten photos of Black-throated Greens
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159052843

My personal favorite photos I got of any of the birds though, was this cooperative Eastern Kingbird, always find it hard for me to get a good focus on them
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/159052833

@lanechaffin had this neat cactus longhorn beetle
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/158883347

Those are definitely some cute buntings!

@jeff_back I think the green ash is critically threatened by the emerald ash borer beetle. It currently has a robust population, but it's likely that millions will fall to the beetle in coming decades.