There are two types of black snakes in our area. The Black Racer, shown here, is the less common of the two. The other black snake is the Black Rat Snake, which can reach lengths of 7 feet. Racers are smaller but can reach lengths of 5 feet. Both are beneficial species that eat mice and other pests. Racers move fast and can sometimes be seen in meadows and fields with their heads up scoping for prey.
Found in wet areas the Bottled Gentian is an uncommon flower in or parks but if you look closely and in the right places it can be found. The tightly wound flower heads are pollinated by bumblebees who pry open the petals to get to the nectar.
The brilliant purple flowers of the Ironweed grace fields and meadows in September, a sure sign that summer is ending and fall is on the way.
