When the fall arrives, I can't get enough of milkweed pods. They just make me think of dragon eggs and dragon scales.
I took these photos on Sunday as we walked the path in the river valley around the Oxbow.
About the Elizabeth Hall Wetlands: This 78-acre
Nature Reserve is found along the west side of the Oldman River. The
wetlands are protected because of the unique cottonwood forest, oxbow
pond and wetland. A two-kilometer walking path, with interpretive signs
about local species, circles the pond. This is an excellent spot for
watching birds and other wildlife species! Lethbridge Parks and Trails
You piqued my interest with the name Elizabeth Hall. I wanted to know who she was to have had such a spectacular area named after here. Here is what I found: park is "named after an ardent local naturalist and alderman who died in 1987 at age 63. The floodplain wetland offers a diverse mix of habitat in its marsh, pond, grassy slopes, cottonwood trees and the meandering Oldman River. Elizabeth Carol Hall loved sharing her passion and knowledge of nature with Brownies, Girl Guides and school children. It’s fitting that the wetland named in her honor is a first-rate natural classroom.
ReplyDeleteI couldn't find a more extensive bio, though I spent a few more "clicks" looking for one. Amazing park. An honour to have the space carry her name.
Whoops. I have never stopped to look at a milkweed pod. I shall now.
ReplyDeleteWhen they dry out and break open to release their seeds -- just wow. If you pick one late in the summer before they are dry and open them up, they are spectacular as well, all the seeds lined up (before the filaments start turning to fluff).
DeleteI have studied these pictures long enough that I know I will be a good student when I finally get one of those pods in my own hands and get to discover its beauty that way.
DeleteI lingered on each photo, amazed I could get such a close up without activating my allergies.
ReplyDeleteI love milkweeds! I used to "explode" the pods as a kid, but then was told not to by my grandmother because it is essential food for the monarchs.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter, Mary, was going to pull up something in her garden, and then noticed that the bees were still getting honey, so she is waiting until it gets colder to do that last bit of garden clean up. You made me think of that -- referring to essential foods for the insects. I have some bee balm outside of my porch but since I have been reading your comment and the comments of others, too, am resisting cleaning up that bed.
DeleteI haven't ever seen milkweed pods. I am sure when I do I will just take one to see what the charm is, and then leave it at that. Of course, I won't do that util I think the monarchs are gone.