The common name of the Milk Snake is derived from the old notion that these snakes, often seen around barn areas, somehow stole milk from cows. Milk snakes are non-venomous and are known for the striking patterns on their bodies, typically in the red color phase seen here. We often find then under pieces of shale rock.
Mid-may is when fawns begin to appear in our area. This one was seen at Pine Ridge Park. The entire time we observed it the only movement it made was to twitch its nose. The protective coloration allows it to blend in very well with the forest floor.
A small patch of large Yellow Lady's Slippers were recently found at Blue Spruce Park. This particular species prefers dry wooded hillsides. The distinctive yellow pouches are the most conspicuous characteristic of the plant.
