We mostly think of wildflowers during the spring, but I was recently reminded about the plentiful wildlife during this time.

Ironically, for a couple of the photos, I was interested in getting more wildflower photos and that’s what I was really after, but the wildlife kept intruding. Eventually, I woke up!

I love the native antelope horn (Asclepias asperula) for several reasons. They are a milkweed and provide food for Monarch caterpillars. They also have the most beautiful round flower bouquets which always make for nice photographs. The name antelope horn comes from their seed pods which are long and curved, first green then turning brown, before bursting to spread the fluffy seeds.

This one had two visiting insect friends while I was watching. We have antelope horns all over our yard. I hope the Monarch caterpillars are not far behind.

Bees On Antelope Horn Flower

I startled this cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) bunny as I walked up to photograph some bluebonnets. I didn’t see him until he bolted, but he didn’t go far. They have an interesting strategy of staying perfectly still and blending in to the background to avoid predators. They only run as a last resort. Once he had moved though, I didn’t lose sight of him. I didn’t approach any closer and that’s why I was able to photograph him.

I think the cottontail is a fine example of well-adapted native wildlife. There are many more of them around than we notice.

Cottontail

I spotted this beetle on the floor our lab at work. I guess you can tell from the industrial-looking floor.

Sometimes the wildlife follows us inside, and in this case, to work. I don’t know what kind it is, but it looks like a scarab beetle. The beautiful green carapace is striking.

Beetle