Monday, October 6, 2014

Wildflower Hunt

Spring is well under way and the wildflowers are in full bloom. Some species of orchid have already reached the end of their flowering cycle, but there are plenty more out there. Walking through the dry October scrub we sense the new foliage that is emerging from the woodland floor. There are yellows, greens, reds, oranges, purples, blues, and just about every hue in between. A overwhelmingly non-directional buzz fills the air as the hover flies and bees search for pollen and nectar.


On the wayside by the idyllic bush walking path we find small diggings, the sign of nocturnal animal life hunting for white ants. A little further in and there is a thick blanket of white and yellow wildflowers covering the ground between the banksias and the taller white gums. Tucked in around the trees bases and clumps of decomposing bark we find small pockets of orchid species. There is an abundance of Cowslip Orchids, but we see others too like the Blue China Orchid, Enamel Orchid, Spider Orchid, and Wandoo Beard Orchid. The orchids are a unique find amongst a sea of beautiful wildflowers so each orchid is special.

The woodland beauties will be faded by summer, but not for long. This time in a year, the next year, and the one after that will bring new joy once again as each one reappears in fresh life. 

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