What to See This Week

A huge diversity of fungi can be seen right now. Pictured here is a coral fungus. There are several species of coral fungus with a wide range of growth habits and colors. There is even a purple coral fungus you may spot if you are lucky!

Last month the dead man’s fingers had only started popping out of the ground. Now, this bizarre fungus has an appearance that fits its name.

This slime mold was easily seen from across the forest. Although slime molds are similar to fungi in appearance and name, they belong to an entirely different kingdom of life: the protists. Other examples of protists include algae and amoebae. 

Gardens are coming to life with summer blooms. Butterfly weed is a unique species of milkweed. It has bright orange (or yellow!) flowers and lacks the milky sap found in other species of milkweed. This species of milkweed is still a host plant for monarch caterpillars.

Indian pink can be seen in the Bird Watching Garden. They have just begun blooming but will soon be regularly visited by hummingbirds.

Sea holly is blooming and covered in bees. The interesting flower heads and blue color make this plant stand out.

The plants in the pollinator garden not only benefit pollinators but other insects that use them for habitat. The wild quinine had several spiders hiding amongst the blooms.

June is one of the biggest months for fawns. This absolutely tiny one was spotted on a little island in the Bald-Cypress Swamp, staying very still and quiet.