UP Nature Notes (Blog)
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The Reciprocity of Purple and Gold - UP Nature Notes, No. 9
December 9, 2023
While photographing a prairie restoration area at our homestead, I was reminded of the wonderful essay, Asters and Goldenrod, in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s book, Braiding Sweetgrass, in which she explains why bees and humans perceive the complementary colors of purple and gold as beautiful. In this case it’s black-eyed Susans…
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Ladies’ Tresses - UP Nature Notes, No. 8
December 9, 2023
Do you know the Ladies’ Tresses (Spiranthes spp.)? These tiny native orchids with spiraling ice-like flowers bloom during early August in the Upper Peninsula’s dry fields, open woods, and disturbed areas. One must look closely to find them, and some magnification is needed to truly appreciate their beauty. …
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Butterfly Season - UP Nature Notes, No. 7
December 9, 2023
July is butterfly season! Along with Monarchs, the three species shown here are among the most common mid-summer butterflies in the Upper Peninsula. Each species has a different life cycle. Compton Tortoiseshells overwinter as adults in protected places like tree cavities or old buildings. White Admirals overwinter as caterpillars in…