Team Lady bug. Oak gall split in half saw tiny holes in flesh of gall and excised wasp eggs.
Small weevil on yellow star thistle developing flower buds in ridge top grasslands. Covered with bristly yellow “hairs”; teardrop shape; about 5mm long; medium length snout. Active on plants despite 90 degree temps at midday. Folded legs to drop when disturbed. Introduced locally from Mediterranean to control invasive yellow star thistle. Oviposits in developing flower heads. Infested heads droop on stem & fail to mature.
Beautiful day, a little chilly in the shade, here at the Skyline Office today for class.