Bizzy buzzer

8 06 2025

In all my excitement about the rainbow over the mustangs that came at the end (nearly) of my visit in Spring Creek Basin a few days ago, I nearly forgot about this busy little buzzer that I spent a fair time focused on (trying, anyway) as it buzzed around some rain-reinvigorated prince’s plume in the northern part of the basin. There were big ants on several of the plumes, along with much tinier little bugs (dreaded gnats?).

There were several smallish plumes growing from this one plant, and the bee diligently visited them all.

If you’re not a fan of bees on pretty spring desert flowers, I assure you that mustangs will return tomorrow. … I was quite fascinated with this little bee, and (to nerd out for a minute) I’m stoked at how well my camera and lens captured all its little details! I mean … NATURE! Am I right?! 🙂


Comments : 17 Comments »

Categories : Bees, Prince's plume, Spring Creek Basin Herd Management Area, Wild flowers

Prince’s plume a’bloom

30 04 2025

Speaking of prince’s plume … !

Just between Sunday and Tuesday, the number of plants I saw probably doubled (which isn’t saying much as I didn’t see many on Sunday). But they’re definitely budding and blooming and raising their blossoms (I don’t really know the nomenclature for blooming or blossoming plants?), and the bees (and ants) are taking notice.

Proudest moment about the above pic? I think I actually have a catchlight in the bee’s eye. 🙂

The bee, by the way, was huge, probably at least the size of my middle finger’s middle knuckle.


Comments : 10 Comments »

Categories : Colorado, Disappointment Valley, Prince, Prince's plume, Spring Creek Basin Herd Management Area, Temple Butte, Wild flowers, Wildlife

It’s official

27 04 2024

It MUST be spring – the prince’s plume is flowering. 🙂

And the bees also are very happy about that:

And … drum roll, please … WE GOT RAIN LAST NIGHT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The first actual rain – and yes, the ground got more-than-damp wet – since April 6. It will put some water in the catchments and give the vegetation a nice, lovely drink of moisture.

*Relief*. 🙂


Comments : 6 Comments »

Categories : Disappointment Valley, Prince's plume, Wild flowers