Blue Belly Flower Week

What does being a Naturalist mean to you? Does it mean you can identify everything in your natural environment? Or, does it mean that you notice things that other people don’t?

A good Naturalist is a keen observer. They have trained their senses to notice specific hints and clues about the world around them. You don’t become a Naturalist overnight either! Becoming a good observer takes time and practice. In fact, a good Naturalist is always learning. They are constantly curious about what’s out there.

The best way to stay curious is by keeping a fresh perspective on things. That’s why this week, we’re highlighting Blue Belly Flowers! Belly Flowers is a term used to describe low-growing wildflowers. These are the wildflowers that are so tiny, you have to get on your belly to see them! Here are some Blue Belly Flowers to hunt for next time you come to the park:

Speedwells: CVNP is home to six species of Speedwells. Here are a couple to get you started:

From left to right: Thymeleaf Speedwell, Slender Speedwell, and Birds-eye Speedwell.
Image credits: Nelson DesBarros (x2), Mallory Klein, respectively.

Blueeyed Grasses: CVNP has only one confirmed species of blueeyed grasses:

Narrow-leaved Blue-eyed Grass.
Image credit: Mallory Klein.

Have a great week out there! Remember to be observant, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun!

Posted on June 22, 2020 08:00 PM by mklein1216 mklein1216

Comments

Great post! Love seeing blue blooms out in the wild. :)

Posted by sambiology almost 4 years ago

Keep these post coming...good job.

and another thought... I agreed with what you have said about being a naturalist...it is also true about being a photographer. So if you are a naturalist and a photographer you are "double" observant. It's an amazing world... Thanks, ….djr

Posted by reiser almost 4 years ago

Wonderful! I am glad you both are enjoying the posts!

That is a great point, D.J. the observational skill that it takes to be a photographer definitely adds to that of being a naturalist. And vice versa. Wow!

Posted by mklein1216 almost 4 years ago

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