A Great Day for Discovery

Yesterday's earlier a.m. walk near Oakland Feather River Camp was highlighted by discovery of a patch of Mountain Lady Slipper (three views above) and fascinating bugs on flowers such as yarrow (above), salsify, and cow parsnip. The columbine (immediately above) was also gorgeous and was complemented by a visiting ladybug nymph. This was the first time I'd seen lady slippers in Plumas County and it was very exciting. The closest relative I'd seen previously were the Calypso Orchids I photographed over in Mendocino County. They're called Redwood Orchids there. In Plumas I've often seen the rein orchis and the several coral roots, all of which are orchids, but the lady slipper has the most prominent and beautiful bloom. I hope they stay a while. More photos later today including some of Cow Parsnip and herds of aphids being kept together by little brown ants in a way reminiscent of sheep and cow dogs keeping their respective herds together. Almost makes me want to grow roses in order to attract aphids.