Signed “Seasons of the Nature Center” books and 2025 calendars are available in my online store. Books are $30; calendars are $18 or 2+ for $15 each. Get a book and a calendar for $40, or the Stocking Stuffer Special - 5 calendars for $50. Local pickup available
Take advantage of 10% off metal prints with a book purchase. Use the code SEASONS23 at checkout
Himba village, Nambia, October 2021
The forest floor has come to life recently with geraniums, roses, and harebells blooming all around. Earlier this spring we had a bumper crop of calypso orchids - more than I've ever seen here, including the less common white orchid. In the nearly five years that I've been living at the Nature Center, they seem to have proliferated quite well!
Colin
The calypso orchid (calypso bulbosa), also known as the fairy slipper, is a species of orchid that is widely distributed throughout the circumpolar region, inhabiting Europe, Asia and North America. Despite its wide range, it can be very elusive and easily overlooked, as it is typically low to the ground (10-14 cm). They are very susceptible to disturbances in their environment and are therefore listed as endangered or threatened in some states as well as Scandinavia. If you walk slowly and look closely, you can find calypso orchids along some of the trails here at the the Eagle River Nature Center, just be sure to watch your step!
Alaska's state flower is one you should not forget…
Spring is making a very early appearance this year. I was surprised to find these forget-me-nots flowering along the trail last week.
