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Project Noah Nature School
Galls are irregular plant growths which are stimulated by the reaction between plant hormones and powerful growth regulating chemicals produced by some insects or mites. Galls may occur on leaves, bark, flowers, buds, acorns, or roots. Leaf and twig galls are most noticeable. The inhabitant gains its nutrients from the inner gall tissue. Galls also provide some protection from natural enemies and insecticide sprays. Important details of the life cycles of many gall-makers are not known so specific recommendations to time control measures most effectively are not available.
In my yard.
Spotted on Jan 7, 2012
Submitted on Jan 7, 2012
8 Comments
http://www.audublog.org/?p=6575
Feb,is feed the birds month.
Please see Audobon link.
I believe it is a gall....but will definitely research this!!
So is it a gall or a seed pod?
Hey Emma...I think they are the same!!
;)
Sarah,compare your spotting to this.
http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/661...
I would not cut it up,because i believe that the resident female wasp that lives in there does not have hands or legs and is handicapped in a way. She lies in this home for ever. Would certainly not want to displace a handicapped being from its home!
Thank you, Cynthia....they do resemble so many pods in the forest...
:)
Great photo! Many would think this was some sort of seed pod. I learned about galls several years ago at a booth set up by a Cornell university student.