Better late than never, our May High-Elevation Wildflower Walk actually went forward on June 2nd, delayed a few weeks while we waited for the wildflowers to come to the party.  Sadly the June 3rd group was cancelled due to the threat of thunderstorms.  The wildflowers proved worth the wait, with a nice variety of spring and summer blooms on display.  Some highlights included plentiful patches of Thyme-leaved Bluets, Canada Mayflower, Clintonia, Cucumber Root, Sweet White Violets, Wood Betony, and some remaining Large-Flowered, Painted, and Wakerobin Trilliums.  The group was rewarded with some uncommon finds as well, particularly the native Lily-of-the-Valley, White Wood Sorrel, four and five-leaved trilliums, and two native dandelions.  Lovely clusters of Cinnamon and Interrupted Ferns gave a preview of our coming ferns expedition.  A few photos are shared here, courtesy of our own Steve Livingston.

This Zoom event was on Tuesday, April 13, 2021

Carlton began his presentation by explaining that for both injured and orphaned wildlife, the main goal is to hopefully get the wild animal back to nature.  He stated that an educator/rehabilitator needs to abide by legal requirements:  State Fish and Game agency permits and Federal permits – if working with Migratory birds and includes song birds and birds of prey, Around 50% are released back in the wild – depending on what is the best situation for the animal.

On April 9th and 12th, the Blue Ridge Naturalist Network once again returned to Big Creek in Great Smoky Mountains National Park for it’s spring wildflower bonanza.  A total of 16 members including our walk leaders toured the trails in fine weather.  Highlights included a variety of trilliums, white and purple phacelias, yellow mandarin, and lots of dwarf crested iris.  Both groups found the trails fairly empty on weekday mornings, so it seems the secret isn’t completely out yet.  Our own Steve Livingston has shared some of his photos from the walk.