Peter Baye found this wildflower growing near a tributary of the Gualala River. It's never been documented to be growing in our area, so it's rare here but not in other locations.
It's scientific name is Clematis ligusticifolia. Peter found it climbing ten feet high in willow trees, blooming brightly in sun and shade.
Thanks to Peter for allowing me to share his photo with you here.
It is rare to see a Western Pond Turtle. They are very shy and usually found near or in a river. Peter Baye came across one crossing a road on a very warm day.
Peter was concerned that the turtle would get harmed by a passing car. He picked it up, planning to take it to the riverbank...and the turtle peed, probably in fright.
Peter returned the turtle to one of the forks of the Gualala River. This is what it looks like in its usual habit, photo also taken by Peter.
Thanks to Peter for allowing me to share his photos with you here.
Peter Baye photographed this rare wildflower. It's a Phantom Orchid, Cephalanthera austiniae.
Peter hasn't seen one in seven years so he was very pleased to discover it. This orchid needs a fungus in the soil to survive, just like the Calypso Orchid. It is found in the shade of conifer forests.
Thanks to Peter for allowing me to share his photo with you here.
Peter Baye found some lovely wildflowers in the Annapolis area. The first is Bristly Jewelflower, Streptanthus glandulosus. It's a member of the mustard family
Next is the lovely Bird's-Eye Gilia, Gilia tricolor.
Bird's-Eye Gilias are members of the Phlox family. Both of these flowers are California natives. They should never be picked - just enjoy their loveliness in the wild.
Thanks to Peter for allowing me to share his photos with you here.
I love these little green frogs. They can change color, though, to adapt to their environment but they can't turn white. Ann Marie Meyer photographed one on a Calla Lily.
Below is a photo of a Treefrog that has changed its color to a blue/gray. It was taken by Susan Ruschmeyer.
When the male calls for a mate, the sound is so much louder than you'd expect from such a tiny frog. Peter Baye captured a photo of the voice sac in action. Amazing photo!
Thanks to Ann Marie, Susan and Peter for allowing me to share their photos with you here.