Monarch’s Not Endangered
Monarch, Danaus plexippus was happy to read in Science today that International Union for Conservation of Nature has decided monarchs are not “endangered.” Instead, they are “vulnerable” because a recent … Continued
Prairie Sunrise
Indian Grass, Sorghastrum nutans The tufts shown here are the seed heads of Indian Grass catching the first rays of light at the Prairie Garden Trust (PGT).
Dogwood Leaves
Flowering Dogwood, Cornus florida The forest is still pretty green around here, but I’m seeing more hints of fall color, especially yellows and golds. Flowering Dogwood is starting to change … Continued
Virginia Creeper
Virginia Creeper, Parthenocissus quinquefolia Walking south of the PGT Visitor Center I found a brightly colored vine on the trunk of a Persimmon tree. Many people kill vines because they … Continued
Deciduous Holly
Deciduous Holly, Ilex decidua Lorna pointed out the bright red holly berries on our way to the mailbox today. Bluebirds and Mockingbirds love eating them. This native shrub is also … Continued
Cedar Berries
Eastern Red Cedar, Juniperus virginiana Walking along the edges of the prairie today Lorna pointed out that the cedar trees have a lot of berries this year. I’m surprised to … Continued
Cattail Leaves
Cattail, Typha latifolia The simple pattern created by these cattail leaves caught my eye. Cattails are a native plant that can be found on the edges of many ponds at … Continued
Northern Goshawk
Northern Goshawk, Accipiter atricapillus A falconer let me get in close to the bird he was training at the PGT. That let me get a good look at the face … Continued
Indian Grass
Indian Grass, Sorghastrum nutans Prairie grasses can create subtle but appealing patterns. Look closely at this on and you’ll see a grasshopper on the bottom right.