Pollinators

I love bees of all sorts including bumblebees as seen above. They are so important to humanity but we often just take them for granted. Bees, and other flying insects such as butterflies for an example, help pollinate flowers on trees and plants of all kinds. What would we do without them? Probably starve! One reason alone to bring our environment back in order from the current mess its in. Something to think about!!! - Volker

Spring at Queen's Park

Saturday I did a short walk through Queen's Park in New Westminster, and I do mean short, since the park isn't all that big when compared with Stanley Park and other area parks. As you can see from the top photo the hills are alive with "buttercups" everywhere but there are other wildflowers such as the English daisy in the photo below. In German this flower is called "Gaenseblumen" or literally "goose flowers."

I have no idea what the name of the above tree is called but the flowers are beautiful. The tree though appears to be in the legume family. Then the blooms on the tree below are wonderful in their own right as well. My books for identifying these trees, shrubs and wildflowers are stored away as yet. Any ideas what they might be? - Volker

Spring is in the air!!!

As you can see, the trees at the corner of Denman and Davie Streets in Vancouver are in full bloom. I believe this one is a cherry tree but I'm not certain. There are trees all over the place showing off their pink blossoms.

Above is a photo of a rhododendron shrub near the tennis courts in Stanley Park. The blossoms looked fresher a few weeks ago but they're still nice to see.

Here is a smaller rhododendron shrub nearby. It's smaller but the flowers are in better condition. What do you think?

And here is a close-up shot of some of the lovely pink blossoms. For those still in the deep throws of winter you have something to look forward to. And for those locally or in warmer climates, you have even more to experience. Have a great spring when it arrives!

The Great Blue Herons are back courting and making their nests. There are several trees near the tennis courts that are filled with nests. The ones pictured are just some of them. Sunday was warm, overcast but not raining. These photos would look much brighter with sun and blue skies but this is a start.

There is another post on the waterfowl at Lost Lagoon planned. They, along with all the other birds, have been very active too. I hope to have that ready later Monday evening. Meantime, enjoy these photos!