Peonies produce droplets of nectar on their developing flower buds, attracting ants that may help protect the flower from herbivores. Here, Camponotus castaneus drinks from a peony in an urban garden.

Urbana, Illinois, USA
Peonies produce droplets of nectar on their developing flower buds, attracting ants that may help protect the flower from herbivores. Here, Camponotus castaneus drinks from a peony in an urban garden.

Urbana, Illinois, USA
Peonies produce droplets of nectar on their developing flower buds, attracting ants that may help protect the flower from herbivores. Here, Camponotus castaneus drinks from a peony in an urban garden.

Urbana, Illinois, USA
Peonies produce droplets of nectar on their developing flower buds, attracting ants that may help protect the flower from herbivores. Here, Camponotus castaneus drinks from a peony in an urban garden.

Urbana, Illinois, USA
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all images and text © Alex Wild 2001-2013